hi geo.
how are you in sunny florida?
i did find an article and it had some possible causes or contributing factors in developing mnd,here it is.
What are the causes of motor neuron disease?
MND happens when motor neurons lose their function gradually and progressively. Motor neurons are neurons that send electrical output signals to muscle neurons, also called motoneurons. Motor neurons are found in the brain and spine.
When motor neurons relay signals from the brain to the muscles and bones, the muscles move. Motor neurons are also involved in many of our automatic movements, such as swallowing and breathing.
Scientists are not sure why motor neurons start to lose function. They believe several inter-related factors cause MND, including:
Excess glutamate - glutamate is a neurotransmitter, a messenger chemical that transmits data from cell-to-cell. Some studies indicate that people with MND have too much glutamate. Abnormally high levels of glutamate may be toxic and could lead to a disturbance in the chemical communication required for good nerve function.
Cell metabolism - transport systems exist in all cells that bring nutrients and chemical components into the cell, while at the same time moving waste products out. Scientists say there are indications that these transport systems are disturbed in the motor neurons during the initial stages of MND., resulting in poor nerve function.
Aggregates - unusual clumps of protein molecules have been found to accumulate in the motor neurons of MND patients. Scientists believe these aggregates undermine the normal functioning of motor neurons.
Lack of antioxidant production - research indicates that the motor neurons of patients with MND do not produce enough antioxidants to neutralize the free radicals that emerge as a natural by-product of cell activity. Oxygen free radicals are a type of toxic waste cells produce - antioxidants mop them up.
Mitochondria of motor neurons - research has found that the mitochondria of motor neuron cells of people with MND appear to be abnormal. Mitochondria provide the energy cells need to carry out their normal function - they are normal structures responsible for energy production in cells.
Neurotrophic factors - these are molecules, usually proteins, that facilitate the growth or repair of nerve cells. It has been found that neurotrophic factors are not produced properly in patients with MND, making the motor neurons more susceptible to damage.
Glia cells - these cells surround neurons and provide support for them and insulation between them. They also provide motor neurons with nutrients and relay data from one cell to another. In some cases, problems with glia cells can affect the motor neurons.
i have been intreseted in the possibility of mitochondrial desease being a contributing factor.
also i strongly believe glutamate is a culprit,it is well known to have some involvement in many neuro degenerative deseases.
