Scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles, have developed an experimental drug that restores lost motor function after stroke without the need for long-term physiotherapy. The research is published in Nature Communications.

The drug, called DDL-920, allows neurons damaged by stroke to reconnect with other areas of the brain. In experiments with mice, the substance completely restored movement control, an effect that is rarely achieved even in intensive rehabilitation.

Researchers have found that stroke disrupts the functioning of special neurons - parvalbumin interneurons. These cells are involved in the coordination of movements and maintain characteristic brain rhythms. After a stroke, the connection to them is disrupted, leading to movement and behavior disorders. DDL-920 restores the activity of these cells and normalizes brain rhythms - thus the brain heals itself.

Although the drug has so far only been tested on animals, scientists call it a breakthrough: until now, no drug could replace rehabilitation. If clinical trials confirm DDL-920's effectiveness, it could be a revolution in stroke recovery. | BGNES