California — At the Brain Injury Help Center (BIHC), we celebrate scientific advancements that open new doors for those living with brain injuries. A recent study from the University of California, Riverside, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, has identified a direct link between mitochondrial dysfunction and progressive damage in the cerebellum of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
This discovery deepens our understanding of how brain injuries and mitochondrial function are interconnected and brings renewed hope for treatments that could protect patients’ mobility, balance, and overall quality of life.
What Did the Researchers Find?
The team led by Professor Seema Tiwari-Woodruff found that mitochondria—known as the cellular “power plants”—fail prematurely in cerebellar neurons called Purkinje cells. These cells are crucial for balance and fine motor control. Their deterioration can cause serious symptoms such as ataxia, tremors, and loss of coordination.
Key findings include:
- Significant loss of mitochondrial protein COXIV in affected cells
- Reduced neuronal branching and loss of myelin
- Progressive degeneration is also observed in animal models with chronic MS
These findings emphasize the importance of protecting brain energy function as a potential treatment pathway.
Why This Matters for People Living with Brain Injuries
At BIHC, we understand that many brain injuries—whether traumatic or linked to neurodegenerative diseases—share common roots: inflammation, myelin loss, and neuronal deterioration. This study highlights how impaired cellular energy can accelerate brain damage, even before major motor symptoms appear.
Our Commitment to Science and Brain Injury Survivors
This scientific breakthrough strengthens our commitment to:
✅ Sharing relevant research on brain injury and neurological function
✅ Supporting accident victims with brain trauma
✅ Educating patients and families about emerging treatments and their medical basis
✅ Advocating for specialized medical care and equitable access to brain health services
As a leading center for brain injury support, BIHC believes every scientific step forward is a step toward better lives for survivors and their families.
Have You Been Diagnosed with MS or Neurological Damage?
Whether you are experiencing imbalance, weakness, or motor loss, you are not alone. At BIHC, we provide legal, medical, and community resources to help you navigate this complex path with dignity and support.Contact us today for a free evaluation and learn about your rights, treatment options, and potential legal avenues—especially if your injury was the result of negligence, workplace hazards, or an accident.
