Indian Scientist proposes to have found treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Indian Scientist proposes to have found treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II – Health & GS-III – Achievements of Indians in Sci and Tech

In news

• Sandeep Eswarappa, Assistant Professor at IISc, Bengaluru proposes to provide new genetic treatment for duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Important value additions 

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe type of muscular dystrophy that primarily affects boys. 
• Females with a single copy of the defective gene may show mild symptoms.
• Muscle weakness usually begins around the age of four, and worsens quickly. 
• Muscle loss typically occurs first in the thighs and pelvis followed by the arms.
• This can result in trouble standing up.
• Most are unable to walk by the age of 12. 
• Scoliosis is also common. 
• Some may have intellectual disability.

Do you know?

• It is caused by a mutation in the gene for the protein dystrophin. 
• Dystrophin is important to maintain the muscle fiber’s cell membrane.
• Although there is no known cure, physical therapy, braces, and corrective surgery may help with some symptoms.