Marine Worms Teach Us About Neurological Disorders in Brain Models

| Posted in: Science Health Sciences Journals

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Neurological Disorder Brain Model: A Lesson from Marine Worms (Annelida: Polychaeta)
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Mohd Ulul Ilmie Ahmad Nazri, Izwandy Idris, Othman Ross, Wan Iryani Wan Ismail


Download the PDF file of the original publication


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Neurological Disorder Brain Model: A Lesson from Marine Worms (Annelida: Polychaeta)

Year: 2019 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2019.26.6.2

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, are expected to increase in prevalence as populations age. Understanding their etiopathology is essential to develop effective treatments. To advance this understanding, researchers are utilizing various animal models, increasingly focusing on marine polychaetes. These organisms display a unique nervous system that consists of a centralized and specialized brain, making them a promising candidate for studying nervous system regeneration (NSR) and its implications for human neurodegenerative diseases.

The Regeneration Capabilities of Polychaetes

One significant aspect of polychaetes is their remarkable ability to regenerate their nervous systems. This capability is primarily driven by intrinsic and extrinsic pathways that regulate regeneration processes. Various factors, including calcium signaling, neurotransmitter activity, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, play crucial roles in the NSR mechanisms of polychaetes. Notably, some species can regenerate both anteriorly and posteriorly from injuries, highlighting their potential usefulness in modeling neurodegenerative conditions. Understanding these regenerative processes could provide insights into overcoming the regenerative limitations seen in human nervous systems, offering novel avenues for disease treatment.

Conclusion

Research into the NSR capabilities of marine polychaetes represents a vital frontier in neuromedicine. As polychaetes possess a well-organized nervous system and demonstrate significant regenerative potential, they could serve as an effective model for studying the mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. Exploring polychaetes' regenerative properties not only enhances our understanding of fundamental biological processes but may ultimately contribute to developing therapeutic interventions for conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Future investigations should focus on leveraging these insights to create innovative models that can inform human treatment strategies.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What role do marine polychaetes play in neurodegenerative disease research?

Marine polychaetes, with their ability to regenerate their nervous systems, may serve as valuable models to study neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, potentially shedding light on mechanisms that could foster regeneration in humans.

How do polychaetes regenerate their nervous systems?

Polychaetes regenerate their nervous systems through a complex interaction of molecular and signaling pathways. Factors such as calcium signaling, neurotransmitters, and intrinsic pathways like Notch signaling are vital in regulating this regeneration process.

What advantages do polychaetes have as experimental models?

Polychaetes are inexpensive, easy to handle, and capable of both sexual and asexual reproduction. Their relatively simple yet organized nervous systems provide insights into more complex vertebrate nervous systems, facilitating research on neuronal regeneration.

What are the potential implications for human medicine?

Understanding polychaete neuritic regeneration may offer insights into treatments for neurodegenerative conditions in humans. Researchers hope to translate these findings into regenerative medicine strategies that could repair or regenerate damaged neural tissues.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Marine Worms Teach Us About Neurological Disorders in Brain Models”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition that disrupts normal bodily functions and can affect mental and physical well-being. In the context of the abstract, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's represent significant challenges to healthcare, especially given their rising prevalence with age. Understanding disease mechanisms is crucial for developing effective therapies.

2) Table:
In scientific literature, a table typically organizes data in a structured format, allowing for easy interpretation and comparison of information. The abstract mentions a table presenting polychaete species capable of anterior regeneration, emphasizing the relationship between various species and their regenerative abilities, which is important for understanding nervous system repair.

3) Species:
Species are groups of organisms that can reproduce and produce fertile offspring. The text discusses polychaetes—a large class in the phylum Annelida—and their diverse regenerative capabilities. Understanding species differences in regeneration is crucial for identifying potential models to study nervous system diseases, providing insights into evolutionary biology and adaptation.

4) Animal:
Animals encompass a vast kingdom of living organisms, including humans, polychaetes, and other taxa. The relevance of animals in scientific research stems from their varied biological systems that can model human conditions. Polychaetes are suggested as ideal candidates for studying nerve regeneration due to their unique regenerative features.

5) Science (Scientific):
Scientific pertains to the systematic study that adheres to methodological practices aimed at understanding natural phenomena. The abstract emphasizes the scientific basis for investigating polychaete regeneration, highlighting the role of scientific inquiry in elucidating mechanisms that may lead to breakthroughs in neurodegenerative disease treatments.

6) Study (Studying):
Study involves the examination and analysis of a subject to gain knowledge. The abstract highlights a review of nervous system regeneration (NSR) in polychaetes, showcasing how systematic studies can reveal mechanisms relevant to human medicine. Comprehensive studies are essential for advancing our understanding of complex biological processes.

7) Channel:
In biology, channels refer to protein structures that facilitate the movement of ions or molecules across cell membranes. The text hints at calcium channels in regeneration signaling pathways. Understanding these channels is vital for analyzing how cells react to injury and communicate during regeneration in different species.

8) Worm:
Worms are elongated, soft-bodied invertebrates, including polychaetes. The research focuses on these marine worms due to their well-developed nervous systems and ability to regenerate. Investigating their regenerative capabilities can yield insights applicable to human nerve damage and neurodegenerative conditions, emphasizing their biological significance.

9) Education:
Education refers to the process of acquiring knowledge and skills. In the context of scientific endeavors, education plays a critical role in training researchers to conduct studies. Enhancing educational practices can improve research outcomes and foster innovation in understanding and treating diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders.

10) Repair:
Repair pertains to the biological processes that restore damaged tissue or systems. The text discusses nervous system regeneration—an essential biological repair mechanism, particularly in polychaetes. Understanding how these organisms repair their nervous systems can inform therapeutic approaches to treat human neurodegenerative diseases.

11) Evolution:
Evolution describes the gradual change in species over time, driven by natural selection, mutation, and adaptation. The text references evolutionary biology by discussing how certain polychaetes developed advanced regenerative abilities. Studying these evolutionary aspects can offer insights into the development of regenerative medicine for humans.

12) Activity:
Activity in a biological context often refers to the functional behaviors of cells, tissues, or organisms. The abstract may imply neural activity related to regeneration processes in polychaetes, which is important for understanding how these systems respond to injury and influence therapeutic strategies in medicine.

13) Learning:
Learning is the acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience or education. In the context of neuroscience and regeneration, studying how learning affects neural plasticity and regeneration can provide insights into potential treatments for cognitive impairments associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

14) Nature:
Nature encompasses all living organisms and the physical world. The study of natural systems, such as the regenerative capabilities in polychaetes, is crucial for understanding complex biological phenomena. Insights gained from nature's mechanisms can inspire innovative approaches in medical science and regenerative therapies for humans.

15) Hair:
Hair can denote the fine filaments growing from the skin of mammals. In regeneration studies, the regeneration of hairs or other appendages may serve as models for understanding the underlying cellular mechanisms. Polychaetes' capacity to regenerate can draw parallels to hair and skin regeneration in other species.

16) Post:
Post typically refers to something that follows or comes after. In the context of scientific discourse, it may relate to post-regenerative outcomes or the effects following an intervention. Understanding these post-mechanisms is vital for evaluating the effectiveness of regenerative therapies and interventions in both polychaetes and humans.

17) Life:
Life refers to the characteristic state of living organisms. In the context of the text, understanding life processes and systems is pivotal for studying regeneration and neurodegenerative diseases. The regenerative capabilities described highlight the remarkable adaptability of life within different species, offering avenues for medical research.

18) Habitat:
Habitat denotes the natural environment where an organism resides. The text emphasizes the occurrence of polychaetes in marine environments. Knowing the habitat preferences of these species is crucial for developing studies and experiments that effectively model their regenerative abilities and biological functions relevant to human health.

19) Reason:
Reason in a scientific context often implies the justification or rationale behind conducting research. The text indicates that studying nervous system regeneration in polychaetes serves the reason of uncovering mechanisms applicable to human neurodegenerative diseases, thereby broadening our understanding of biological repair processes.

20) Firing:
Firing in neuroscience usually refers to the action potential or electrical activity generated by neurons. This term is significant in the study of regeneration, as neuron firing patterns post-injury may influence repair mechanisms. Investigating these patterns in polychaetes is crucial for understanding nervous system functionalities during regeneration.

21) Grove:
Grove refers to a small wood or group of trees. While not directly mentioned in scientific contexts, it symbolizes ecosystems where diverse species, including polychaetes, might thrive. Study of such ecosystems can reveal the environmental factors affecting regeneration processes in various organisms, including implications for conservation and biology.

22) Rules:
Rules in scientific research denote guidelines governing experimental methods and data interpretation. They ensure that studies are conducted ethically and systematically. The text implies that adherence to established scientific rules is crucial to derive valid conclusions about regeneration mechanisms in polychaetes and their relevance to human medicine.

23) Field:
Field refers to a specific area of study or professional activity. The text indicates that neurobiology, particularly concerning neurodegenerative diseases and regeneration mechanisms, is a significant field. Advancements in this field can lead to transformative approaches to understanding and treating human health challenges related to the nervous system.

24) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burn can refer to the physiological reaction to exposure to heat or chemicals causing tissue damage. In regenerative studies, understanding burn injuries can enhance knowledge of trauma response and repair mechanisms. The investigation of regeneration in polychaetes provides insight into potential therapies for burn victims.

25) Human body:
The human body is the structural and functional unit in humans, comprising various systems and organs. The exploration of regeneration in polychaetes aims to draw parallels to the human body to develop new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, emphasizing the importance of interconnected biological mechanisms.

26) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the accumulation of information, experiences, and understanding. In scientific research, expanding knowledge through studies of distinct species enhances our ability to address complex problems, such as neurodegeneration. The pursuit of knowledge through polychaete research aims to translate findings to human medical applications.

27) Medicine:
Medicine is the science or practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The article suggests that understanding the regenerative mechanisms in polychaetes may have significant implications for medical advancements, especially concerning neurodegenerative diseases, thereby bridging the gap between fundamental science and applied therapeutic practices.

28) Mutation:
Mutation refers to changes in DNA sequences that can lead to alterations in biological functions. In the context of regeneration, mutations might influence the regenerative capacities of certain species. Understanding mutation-related mechanisms could provide insights into genetic factors influencing healing processes in both polychaetes and humans.

29) Language:
Language is a system of communication. In scientific contexts, clear and precise language is critical for disseminating research findings. The text implies that effectively communicating discoveries from polychaete studies is essential for advancing understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, promoting collaboration across scientific communities.

30) Meeting:
Meeting in a research context can refer to discussions among scientists or stakeholders to collaborate on findings. Constructive meetings enable the sharing of insights regarding nervous system regeneration and neurodegenerative disease treatment, fostering an environment where interdisciplinary approaches can lead to innovative breakthroughs in medicine.

31) Surface:
Surface refers to the outermost layer of an object. In biological contexts, understanding surface interactions, such as those between cells and their environment during regeneration, is crucial. The article suggests that studies of surface-level regeneration mechanisms in polychaetes can inform human regenerative medicine strategies and tissue engineering.

32) Company:
Company generally refers to a group of individuals working together or a business entity. In scientific research, collaboration among various companies and institutions can drive advancements. Interdisciplinary company efforts may enhance research output on regeneration in polychaetes and its relevance to human health, promoting innovation and discovery.

33) Family:
Family in biological classification represents a group of related organisms. The text refers to polychaetes and their classification within a family structure, highlighting the evolutionary relationships that can inform studies of regeneration. Understanding family dynamics among species can lead to insights into diverse regenerative abilities.

34) Water:
Water is a fundamental solvent necessary for life. The text notes that polychaetes inhabit aquatic environments, and understanding their ecological dynamics is essential for studying their physiological processes, including regeneration. Water-related studies contribute to comprehending how environmental factors influence biological mechanisms critical to health and disease.

35) Death:
Death refers to the cessation of biological functions, leading to the end of life. In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, death of neurons can have significant implications for individuals' health. Understanding regeneration mechanisms may provide strategies to mitigate the effects of degeneration and extend neuron viability or promote recovery.

36) Blood:
Blood is the fluid that circulates in the bodies of vertebrates, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen. While the text revolves around the nervous system, the role of blood in regeneration, such as its involvement in healing processes, may influence therapeutic approaches for regenerative medicine targeting neurodegenerative diseases.

37) Genu:
Genu relates to a bending or curve, often used in anatomical terminology. While not directly mentioned, the concept may apply to pathways in the nervous system. Understanding how anatomy influences neural pathways and regeneration can aid in developing targeted therapies in neurodegenerative diseases, thus contributing to medical advancements.

38) Wall:
Wall can refer to physical barriers or anatomical structures within organisms. In studies on regeneration, understanding how cellular walls of tissues respond to injury and facilitate repair is crucial. Investigating regeneration processes in polychaetes may reveal insights applicable to human tissue healing and regeneration.

39) Shand (Sand):
Sand refers to granular particles found in environments like beaches and riverbeds. Polychaetes often inhabit sandy substrates, which can influence their biology and behavior. Understanding the role of sand and its ecological implications informs studies on how environmental factors affect regenerative capabilities in various species.

40) Drug:
Drug denotes a chemical substance used for medical purposes. The text indirectly relates to the potential for developing drugs derived from insights gained through studying regeneration in polychaetes. Understanding regenerative mechanisms may lead to novel therapeutic drugs for treating neurodegenerative diseases in humans, thus enhancing medical practices.

41) Pur:
Poor typically refers to a lack of quality or insufficient resources. In a scientific context, inadequate understanding of regeneration processes may impede research on neurodegenerative diseases. The text underscores the critical need for further studies to prevent deficiencies in knowledge that could hinder advancements in medicine and therapy development.

Other Health Sciences Concepts:

[back to top]

Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Marine Worms Teach Us About Neurological Disorders in Brain Models’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Gene, Body part, Memory loss, Injury, Regeneration, Brain, Regenerative medicine, Molecular biology, Nervous system, Central nervous system, Spinal Cord, Alzheimer's disease, Anterior and posterior, Cell biology, Human brain, Sensory stimulation, Learning and memory, Animal model, Brain diseases, Extracellular matrix, Parkinson's disease, Dementia, Gene expression, Nerve endings, Drosophila melanogaster, Animal ethics, Glial cells, Neurodegeneration, Peripheral Nervous System, Neurodegenerative disease, Animal research, Cell signaling, Extrinsic factors, Intrinsic pathway, Extrinsic pathway, Tissue engineering, Signaling pathways, Traumatic brain injury, Spinal cord injury, Adult neurogenesis, Adult Stage, Laboratory Condition, Genetic screening, CNS injury, Neural development, Genome, Behavioral problem, Mitogen-activated protein kinase, Extracellular matrix (ECM), Alternative splicing, Molecular target, Nervous system disease, Intracellular calcium, Brain injury, Sensory neurons, Neurodegenerative condition, Complex behaviour, Anterior region, Regenerative capability, Axon regeneration, Model organism, Neurodegenerative disease model, Calcium signaling, Axonal growth, Notch signaling, Comparative model, Caenorhabditis elegans, Genome sequence, Signalling pathway, Macrophage, Extracellular factors, Nervous system development, Ministry of Higher Education, Extracellular matrix molecules, Wound repair, Animal ethics approval, Gene sequence, Neuron, NSR, Nerve cell, Ganglia, Marine worms, Growth cone, Signalling mechanism, Axon guidance, Regenerating ability, CAMP signaling, MAPK signalling, Voltage-gated calcium, Brain disease, Axon, Polychaete, C. elegans, Global economic impact, Local translation, MRNA stability, Synapses, Global economic, Dorsal root, Ventral root, Circulating blood cells, Voltage-gated calcium channel, Development study, Regeneration study, Short life cycle, Short generation time.

Let's grow together!

I humbly request your help to keep doing what I do best: provide the world with unbiased sources, definitions and images. Your donation direclty influences the quality and quantity of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual insight the world is exposed to.

Let's make the world a better place together!

Like what you read? Help to become even better: