Drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis ‘could reverse damage caused to the brain by a stroke’
A DRUG used for rheumatoid arthritis could reverse the damage caused by a stroke, says research.
Tests on rats found the drug IL-1Ra reduced the death of brain cells and increased numbers of new neurons — and trials on patients show promise.
People suffering a stroke are left with abnormally high levels of interleukin-1, a protein that can trigger inflammation in the brain
Greater inflammation increases the chance of severe disability or death.
IL-1Ra appears to block this protein which not only limits initial damage but also helps the brain repair itself long-term through the generation of new cells. They are then believed to help restore function to damaged areas.
In rats this helped them regain motor skills lost after a stroke.
IL-1Ra is currently given to arthritis patients via injection.
Prof Stuart Allan, of the University of Manchester, said: “The results lend strong support to the use of IL-1Ra in the treatment of stroke. However, further large trials are necessary.”
Around 110,000 people have a stroke in England every year, and it is the third largest cause of death, after heart disease and cancer.
READ MORE:
How to tell the difference between a stroke and a heart attack
What is lung cancer? The symptoms, treatment and survival rate of the condition
What is obsessive compulsive disorder? Causes, symptoms and treatment
What is the HPV virus, can I get vaccinated and what are the symptoms of cervical cancer?