Post by Lady~RavenHeart on Nov 8, 2005 21:36:21 GMT 2
Restless leg syndrome explained
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is probably caused by iron-deficient brain cells that trigger the central nervous system to send confusing signals to the arms and legs, according to research by Penn State College of Medicine scientists.
Lack of iron to blame?
"Our previous studies established a physical cause for RLS showing certain cells in the brain were iron-deficient. We have now found a sequence of events that may connect that cellular iron deficiency to the uncontrollable movements of the disorder," James Connor, a professor and vice chairman for neurosurgery, said in a prepared statement.
In studies with rats and human brain tissue, Connor and his team concluded that a lack of iron results in problems with production of dopamine, a chemical that transmits messages from the brain and central nervous system to the body.
The research was presented Oct. 25 at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in San Francisco.
Treatment options investigated
"Our next steps are to continue investigations of treatment strategies for RLS involving iron supplementation and dopamine agents to attempt to reach for normal balance between iron and dopamine in the brain," Connor said.
RLS is characterised by irresistible urges to move the legs and arms. This is often accompanied by creepy-crawly sensations in the limbs. These sensations, which are relieved only by movement, become worse at night and cause sleeplessness for people with RLS. –
(HealthDayNews)
To see this article in its original context, please go to: www.health24.com/news/Other/1-934,29841.asp
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is probably caused by iron-deficient brain cells that trigger the central nervous system to send confusing signals to the arms and legs, according to research by Penn State College of Medicine scientists.
Lack of iron to blame?
"Our previous studies established a physical cause for RLS showing certain cells in the brain were iron-deficient. We have now found a sequence of events that may connect that cellular iron deficiency to the uncontrollable movements of the disorder," James Connor, a professor and vice chairman for neurosurgery, said in a prepared statement.
In studies with rats and human brain tissue, Connor and his team concluded that a lack of iron results in problems with production of dopamine, a chemical that transmits messages from the brain and central nervous system to the body.
The research was presented Oct. 25 at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in San Francisco.
Treatment options investigated
"Our next steps are to continue investigations of treatment strategies for RLS involving iron supplementation and dopamine agents to attempt to reach for normal balance between iron and dopamine in the brain," Connor said.
RLS is characterised by irresistible urges to move the legs and arms. This is often accompanied by creepy-crawly sensations in the limbs. These sensations, which are relieved only by movement, become worse at night and cause sleeplessness for people with RLS. –
(HealthDayNews)
To see this article in its original context, please go to: www.health24.com/news/Other/1-934,29841.asp
