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…
My wife, Jill, has always been a force of nature when it comes to home projects. From assembling furniture to organizing or fixing appliances, Jill has been unstoppable. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve gone to bed with an unopened box in the living room, only to…
Being physically active is significantly associated with a delayed age of the onset of Huntington’s disease and spending more time watching television is significantly linked to an earlier age of onset. These are the findings of a study that analyzed genetic variants linked with different levels of physical activity…
Who will become the next president? I’m actually talking about the next president of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA), the largest public nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by Huntington’s disease (HD) through research, education, and advocacy. Louise Vetter served…
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…
I sat across from my wife, Jill, watching her organize her nail polish. When she paused, I could see the weight of her body language: She was slumped forward, which is unusual for her, as she usually projects positivity in everything she says and does. She was…
“I wake up panicking and find it hard to unclench the ball of anxiety tightening in my chest.” — Melanie Pearson, from her first blog post about caring for her brother with Huntington’s disease. I understand Melanie’s feelings. Huntington’s has also taken the lives of my dad, grandad, and…
Levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a marker of damage to specific neuron-supporting cells, in the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord increase with the progression of Huntington’s disease, a study showed. Higher GFAP levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were also significantly associated with more severe…
Our peaceful neighborhood was recently shaken by an unexpected tragedy. Our neighbors across the street, in the midst of renovating their roof, watched helplessly as a single spark from a power saw ignited a fire that caused extensive damage to their home. As I stood with my wife, Jill,…
Ingrezza Sprinkle, a new formulation of Ingrezza (valbenazine) that’s designed to be easier to swallow, is now available in the U.S, Neurocrine Biosciences, which markets the therapy, announced. Ingrezza Sprinkle comes in capsules that are meant to be opened and the contents sprinkled over soft foods like yogurt,…
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