In a recent study performed on lab mice who have the rodent version of down’s syndrome, there is new hope that a drug can help reduce the effect of Down’s syndrome. An injection of a newly developed drug is believed to help the memory parts of the brain.
This new drug increases the nor norepinephrine within the brain, which is what carries messages around the brain. A person with Down’s syndrome has difficulty holding on to memories and things they have learned. With this new treatment, it is hoped to help lessen the learning disabilities associated with down’s syndrome.
The study produced some remarkable findings. In one situation, a group of mice that were diagnosed with rodent Down syndrome, were placed into a cage. The mice did not build nests like normal mice would do. The effected mice were given an injection that boosts the norepinephrine levels within the brain. Within hours, the mice began building nests. Unfortunately, the effects did not last long, and once the drug wore off, they returned to their previous behavior.
The results offer some hope for the future treatment of those with Down’s syndrome. There is still a lot of work and research to be completed, but this study proves there is a chance.