Protein Brake on Nerve Repair Identified; Blocking AHR Promotes Regrowth in Mice

Scientists have pinpointed a protein that acts as a brake on the nervous system’s ability to repair damaged connections. The protein, known as AHR, was shown to inhibit nerve fiber regrowth. In laboratory studies, blocking AHR in mice with nerve or spinal cord injuries allowed damaged fibers to regrow and restored movement and sensation. The findings suggest that targeting AHR could shift neurons from merely surviving an injury to actively rebuilding themselves. Researchers plan to test AHR inhibitors in larger animal models before moving toward clinical trials.