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Scientists Discover New Type of Neurons

European scientists have identified in mice a previously unknown group of brain

nerve cells, or neurons, that regulate cardiovascular functions such as heart rhythm and

blood pressure.

This image shows neurons affected by dysfunctional thyroid (Jens Mittag et al)

Neurons develop in the brain with the aid of thyroid hormone, which is producedin the thyroid gland. Patients in whom the function of the thyroid gland isdisturbed, and who therefore produce too much or too little thyroid hormone, areat risk of developing problems with cells.

Patients with untreated hyperthyroidism (too high a production of thyroid hormone) or

hypothyroidism (too low a production of thyroid hormone) often develop heart problems. It has

previously been believed that this was solely a result of the hormone affecting the heart directly.

However, a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation shows thatthyroid hormone also aects the heart indirectly, through a previously unknownpopulation of so-called parvalbuminergic neurons.

The study reveals that thyroid hormone receptors are required for the development of these cells

in a brain area called the anterior hypothalamus.

This discovery opens the possibility of a completely new way of combating cardiovascular

disease!" said lead author #r Jens Mittag of the $arolins%a Institutet&s #epartment of 'ell and

Molecular iology.

If we learn how to control these neurons! we will be able to treat certain cardiovascular problems

li%e hypertension through the brain. This is! however! still far in the future."

http://dx.doi.org/10.1172/JCI65252http://dx.doi.org/10.1172/JCI65252http://dx.doi.org/10.1172/JCI65252

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more immediate conclusion is that it is of utmost importance to identify and treat pregnant

women with hypothyroidism! since their low level of thyroid hormone may harm the production of

these neurons in the foetus! and this may in the long run cause cardiovascular disorders in the

offspring!" #r Mittag concluded.

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