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Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Russian scientists find new way to repair DNA that may cure Alzheimer’s

RT.com, July 05, 2015

RIA Novosti / S. SolovjevRIA Novosti / S. Solovjev

A group of Russian scientists have discovered a new method of DNA repair which may be able to prevent and cure neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s and even stop the process of cell death.

The research team led by Vasily M. Studitsky, professor at the Lomonosov Moscow State University, published their findings in an article “Structure of transcribed chromatin is a sensor of DNA damage” in the Science Advances journal.

“Early detection and repair of damaged DNA is essential for cell functioning and survival,” says the study.


The paper raises the question of single-strand breaks (SSBs) which are called in the research “common DNA damages generated during various processes of cell metabolism.”

“Unrepaired SSBs can interfere with transcription, replication, and DNA repair; induce accumulation of double-stranded DNA breaks; increase genomic instability and apoptosis [process of programmed cell death]; and lead to severe neurodegenerative diseases.” Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease and spinal muscular atrophy are examples of such diseases.


Studitsky told science portal Psys.org that the team of scientists “has shown, not yet in the cell but in vitro, that the repair of breaks in the other DNA chain, which is ‘hidden’ in the nucleosome, is still possible.”

“According to our hypothesis, it occurs due to the formation of special small DNA loops in the nucleosome, although normally DNA wounds around the histone ‘spool’ very tightly," he added.

As the DNA molecule is chemically unstable, its damage detection and repair are needed.

“These observations raise the possibility that nucleosomal structure could affect the process of detection and repair of DNA damages,” the study says.

The researchers added that their findings can suggest “the existence of a chromatin-specific, transcription-dependent mechanism that allows detection of NT-SSBs that are otherwise hidden in the chromatin structure.”

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Question: Dearest Kryon: I've read the question and answer on people with diseases of the mind - for example, Alzheimers and dementia. But I have more questions. You say that people have chosen this path and that the lessons are for us. As I work with these people, I'm wondering if there is any stage where there could be a reversal of the condition, and if so, with what methods? The people in the hostel are so drugged up, and there's a mind-set with the authorities that no "alternate" therapies work - although they're using colored lights. (Sadly, the diversional therapist told me she doesn't know what color therapy is.)

From a spiritual point of view, what is the best way to work with these people - talk to them as though they were normal, or go along with their imaginings? I've been told that they need to be kept quiet, especially toward evening. However, I've found that with one woman who mostly paces saying very little, the more childlike I am (dancing and singing makes her happy), the more she talks. I could go on and on - could you please enlighten me further?

Answer: I will answer the second part first. Love those who are in this condition. Find out what makes them smile... and then make them smile. The best you can do in a facilitation of this condition is to somehow create joy. Even in their confusion they can laugh at situations and be creative. They'll also remember you better as the one who creates this emotion. Each is very different, but in general, try to find their "happy" button and push it as often as you can. They will remember that.

Right now you're perched upon some important discoveries that will be able to reverse these conditions to a large degree. But just as the paraplegic who regains their nerve connections must than relearn how to walk, suffering much pain, there will be this attribute with a regeneration of the mind. Even if new cells are created, they won't necessarily have the old memories, but they can be trained to be healthy and be ready for new memories.

So someday these will have the ability to halt the progress of the degeneration of cells that are being taken, and instead grow new pathways around them. Some will be able to "reconnect" to certain kinds of memories (like recognition) but will have to relearn what the association of recognition actually means. So history and events might have to be studied and relearned... sometimes even things like reading, also. The pain will be that the individual will regain mental health and will realize exactly what has happened.

Your stem-cell research is very important, and you're reaching a point where you'll be able to use birth cells that aren't embryonic, but every bit as potent for research... thereby sidestepping all moral issues. Look for this in the next few years. 

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