According to research published in PLOS One, researchers believe that they have developed a treatment that could minimize the long and short-term damage caused by a traumatic brain injury. A TBI is defined as any blow to the head that could interfere with the brain’s normal function. In severe cases, symptoms can last for several months, and a TBI could lead to Alzheimer’s.

After a brain injury, the body sends cells to the affected area to minimize and repair the trauma. However, these immune cells cause inflammation that may damage the tissue. Researchers believe that an experimental drug called MW151 could keep the cells healthy while reducing inflammation. In addition, researchers found that the drug could reduce cognitive impairment in a closed head injury. In mouse models that had mild fluid percussion injury, the treatment led to the suppression of interleukin-1 beta in the brain.

Based on the findings, researchers were hopeful that testing on humans could begin in the next few years. There is currently no treatment that can effectively address many of the symptoms related to TBI including difficulty sleeping, headaches and the increased risk of dementia. Researchers believe that the positive results with MW151 may represent the next step in treating TBI and meeting what was referred to as an unmet clinical need.

A person who incurs a head injury in a car accident that was caused by the negligence of another motorist can face lengthy and expensive periods of medical care and treatment. An attorney representing such an injured victim may assist in seeking compensation for these and other expenses through a personal injury lawsuit filed against the at-fault party.