A South Korean research team has made a significant advancement in the study of degenerative brain disorders. Scientists at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) have developed a new labeling technology called ‘NeuM’ (Neuronal Membrane-selective) that offers unprecedented detail when observing neuronal structure.
NeuM could revolutionize the understanding of diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and stroke. These conditions are characterized by the malfunction and deterioration of nerve cells, and NeuM’s ability to track neuronal changes over 72 hours is a major step forward.
How NeuM Works
Unlike previous methods with limitations in accuracy and long-term tracking, NeuM excels by:
- Selectively labeling the membranes of living neurons
- Visualizing neuronal structures in clear detail
- Allowing real-time monitoring of how neurons change
Implications for Research
Dr. Kim Yun Kyung of the KIST Brain Science Institute explains, “NeuM can distinguish aging and degenerating neurons, becoming a crucial tool in elucidating the mechanisms of degenerative brain disorders and developing treatments.”
Researchers plan to further refine NeuM for even more precise neuronal analysis.
This cutting-edge technology brings new hope to the fight against debilitating brain diseases, potentially leading to groundbreaking discoveries and life-changing treatments.
