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This study in mice found that a technique of depleting the RNA-binding protein PTB was able to convert mouse astrocytes to functional neurons. Applying this to chemically induced Parkinsons Disease in mice was successful at converting astrocytes to dopaminergic neurons and resolution of motor defects. Comment: This appears to be a very promising technique to treat neurodegenerative disease by converting brain astrocytes into neurons. Nature 2020 Jun;582(7813):550-556    (retrieved Jun, 2020). There are currently 1090 pearls in the database. While every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy, mistakes can and do occur. Use databank at your own risk. All pearls © 2024 by the Internet Medical Association. Click Here to view more medical pearls.