Work from three laboratories in China – led by researchers Liu Guanhui and Qu Jing at the Institute of Zoology, Zhang Weiqi at the Beijing Genome Institute (also part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences) – identified a particular group of cells that innervate motor neurons. Degeneration of the spine can further accelerate the aging process, which contributes to gait alterations common in the elderly.
theo South China Morning PostIn the animal testing phase on long-tailed monkeys, 10 monkeys were divided into 2 groups. One group was given vitamin C 30 mg/kg – dissolved in drinking water and after breakfast – daily for 40 months. Other monkeys received the same amount of water but no supplements.
After the study period, there were significant improvements in aging-related indicators for motor neurons in the group of monkeys supplemented with vitamin C.
Chinese scientists believe that motor nerve aging can be improved by vitamin C. Photo: SCITECH DAILY
Aging of the spine can lead to a rapid decline in mobility in people over the age of 60, increasing the risk of falls as well as many chronic diseases in the elderly.
By identifying a new cell type “responsible” and a potential vitamin C-based intervention, the seven-year study could open up future anti-aging treatments.
Meanwhile, the sheet Guardian Reports from the UK on another medical advancement that could transform the fight against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Gynecological health startup DE recently launched a product that is both a cotton swab sanitary pad and an at-home STI testing kit for gonorrhea, chlamydia, Trichomonas, mycoplasma and ureaplasma infections.
According to a representative of DE, the product is intended to speed up the diagnosis and treatment of STI diseases, especially in patients who are nervous or embarrassed to get tested. This special type of sanitary napkin easily reaches the cervix without using a speculum like in a medical facility.
After using according to the instructions, the person requiring testing will send this swab to the laboratory and wait for the results within 5 days.
