New method will allow to monitor a genes’ activity in a brain

It helps to identify the areas where genes are "turned off". This method might simplify the diagnosis of disorders such as Alzheimer's disease or schizophrenia. The new technique is a type of positron emission tomography (PET), says Popular Science.

For monitoring the brain process, PET uses radioactive marks. Usually they are associated with glucose, which is the energy source for brain cells. Those parts of the brain, where glucose is quickly over, are considered to be the most active. For the new method, scientists have created a molecule that searches and forms a bond with the enzymes that "switch off" the genes.

The scientists have tested the method on 8 healthy volunteers. All participants had reduced activity of genes in the same areas, approximately. The researchers say: the study of gene activity in a healthy brain will help us to get more information about the different disorders.

Source: MEDdaily