News

Gut microbes, blood metabolites may be Huntington’s biomarkers

Examining the amounts of certain microbes in the gut and levels of specific metabolites in the blood may help distinguish people with and without Huntington’s disease with 100% accuracy, a study suggested. “This study determined crucial functional gut microbiota and potential biomarkers associated with [Huntington’s development], providing new insights…

Mutant huntingtin protein pokes holes in cells’ nuclear membrane

Clumps of the mutant huntingtin protein, which are the known cause of Huntington’s disease, poke holes in the membrane that surrounds and protects cells’ DNA-filled nucleus, according to preclinical research. These protein aggregates had tiny, protruding fibers that damaged the membrane, which is called the nuclear envelope. Lab-grown cells…

Healthy habits before symptoms show may slow disease progression

A high level of education, low to moderate alcohol intake, not smoking, and controlling one’s weight may slow Huntington’s disease progression among those who’ve yet to have symptoms, a study shows. “Reducing modifiable risk factors for [Huntington’s] is one way to support the presymptomatic population,” which is made up…