Medical Discovery Offers Hope to Victims of Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
Marking what could be a potentially game-changing medical development, researchers have recently identified a previously undiscovered, yet startlingly beneficial immune response which happens quickly on the heels of injury to the central nervous system. Should doctors come up with a way to effectively control and direct this particular type of immune response, they may be able to craft substantially more effective treatments for traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries than currently exist.
Furthermore, researchers may ultimately be able to design more effective treatments for degenerative afflictions including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
The Los Angeles personal injury attorneys of Ellis Law have long been committed to representing victims of traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries resulting from the negligence of other parties. It is hoped that these recent discoveries may eventually lead to advancements that eradicate or at least ameliorate the lasting effects of such events.
How the immune response triggers healing
The research study, led by Dr. James T. Walsh of the University of Virginia, outlines a newly-observed response by the immune system which is entirely independent of the processes through which the immune system is typically sparked into activity. Researchers learned that when an injury occurs, the central nervous system initiates a “conversation” with the immune system in a way not observed before, sounding alarm signals intended to trigger immediate immune responses. This in turn sparks production of the essential interleukin 4 molecule, known for promoting the protection and regeneration of neurons which may otherwise have been killed off by post-injury inflammation. This is of critical importance because once dead, central nervous system neurons can never be revived.
Potential applications generate optimism
At present, no truly effective modes of treatment exist for the purpose of regenerating or boosting survival rates of neurons in the aftermath of a traumatic central nervous system injury. In the past, available treatments for spinal cord injuries primarily involved attempts at suppressing the body’s natural immune response so as to prevent broader damage from being done. Unfortunately, treatments of this type have not proven themselves to be very helpful. With this new awareness of the potential benefits offered by this post-injury immune system response, doctors may work to increase the presence and production of interleukin-4 after an injury occurs to take advantage of its protective capabilities. Doctors may also gain an advantage in assessing the ways in which patients may respond to certain types of treatments by measuring their ability to produce interleukin-4.
Los Angeles spinal cord injury lawyer
Though these recent discoveries are undoubtedly cause for real optimism and hope for those seeking better treatments for life-altering brain and spinal injuries, far too many individuals are suffering right now because of the harm they have sustained. These individuals are simply unable to sit patiently and wait for scientific advancements which may or may not come to fruition during their lives. The pain, emotional trauma and financial distress such events can cause often seem insurmountable, but with the help of a skilled Los Angeles spinal cord injury lawyer from Ellis law, it may be possible to secure substantial compensation.
If you or a loved one has suffered a brain or spinal cord injury due to the negligent acts or omissions of someone else, you owe it to yourself explore your legal options. The law affords you the ability to pursue financial recovery which may include payment for past, present and future medical expenses, continuing therapy and treatment, necessary home modifications, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.
For over two decades, the attorneys at Ellis Law have provided clients in Los Angeles and Southern California with an unrivaled level of personal service and dedicated advocacy. To schedule a no-cost consultation to discuss the facts of your case, contact us at 310-641-3335.