Orchestra 
DIGITAL WORLD
BRICS+ Media Centre 
MODERN RUSSIAN 
17.06.2617:00 
Brazilian space research brings advances in treatment of Rett syndrome
A new method has also proved effective in combating premature brain ageing
A research team led by Brazilian specialists has discovered that medicines used in the treatment of HIV and hepatitis B may be effective in combating Rett syndrome, as reported by Brasil 247, a partner of TV BRICS.
This rare genetic disease mainly affects girls, causing regression of cognitive, motor and speech skills, as well as leading to serious respiratory difficulties.
To conduct comprehensive studies of the syndrome, researchers sent mini-brains grown in the laboratory into space, where microgravity conditions stimulate brain ageing. This made it possible to identify that the disease is triggered by an inflammatory response. This reaction can be blocked through a combination of the medicines lamivudine and stavudine, promoting the recovery of normal brain functions.
In addition to being effective in the treatment of Rett syndrome, this combination of medicines may also help prevent premature brain ageing, a problem that can occur during prolonged space missions. Scientists hope that this treatment will also open up novel possibilities for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.
Medical teams from various BRICS+ countries have been achieving excellent results in the field of medicine, developing innovative methods to combat diseases and monitor health conditions.
Indian scientists, for example, have created a more effective and safer technology for the treatment of breast cancer, according to IANS, a partner of TV BRICS. The method involves injecting nanoparticles loaded with a chemotherapy drug, administered directly into the area affected by the tumour.
Meanwhile, researchers in Iran have developed a new technology to create ultra-sensitive nanosensors capable of monitoring patients’ breathing quickly and accurately. According to Mehr News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS, the innovation consists in the use of a single low-energy laser, replacing the traditional multi-stage process.
Another notable advance in Brazil’s medical field has occurred in the study of treatments for yellow fever. Band News, a partner of TV BRICS, reported that the country will develop the first medicine specifically aimed at treating this disease. The therapy is based on antibodies selected by artificial intelligence and produced in the laboratory to mimic the natural action of the immune system.
Photo: greenbutterfly / iStock
23 minutes 27 sec.