Q&A about health and research

Introduction In early 2022, as I struggled with persistent headaches, partial memory lapses, confusion, neck pain, ringing in my left ear, and a loss of color vision in my left eye, a troubling question began to form in my mind: Could COVID-19 affect the brain? When I turned to medical professionals for answers about my symptoms, I was met with reassurances like, “That’s not possible—neither COVID-19 nor mRNA vaccines can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to affect the brain. Fast forward to today, and we now know that both COVID-19 and the mRNA vaccines can indeed interact with the brain, potentially breaching the BBB. Yet, despite this recognition, a clear understanding of how these neurological effects occur—and, more importantly, how to effectively address them—remains elusive. The skull-meninges-brain axis refers to the intricate relationship between the skull, meninges (protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord), and the brain itself. These structures work toget...

Purpose: Exploring the Connection Between Manic Depression and SMA In 2012, I noticed a recurring pattern of manic depression among people I personally know, combined with access to their 23andMe genetic data . The defensive and aggressive behaviors observed in this group were not isolated; they formed a larger pattern that hinted at potential underlying genetic or biochemical influences. This led me to begin research into GS224 , a genetic marker I suspected might be tied to these behaviors, and its potential connection to tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) , a critical cofactor in neurotransmitter synthesis, nitric oxide regulation, and amino acid metabolism. While I recognized these recurring health patterns as clues to interconnected issues, my attempts to inform individuals and medical professionals were met with limited understanding and action. Frustrated by the lack of response and willingness to implement preventive measures such as lifestyle or medication changes, I temporarily aban...

Rearing a boy with autism has shown me both the daily struggles and the extraordinary capabilities that come with his condition. Autism represents a different way of thinking, feeling, and expressing oneself—a unique variation of human experience. The challenges often lie in areas such as self-care and independence, like living alone, forming relationships, or relying on others for daily needs. Reflecting on my childhood in the 1950s, I realize that what we now call autism was often dismissed or misunderstood. In my first-grade class in 1955, children who struggled to understand or had little interest in certain subjects were often ridiculed or called names. These behaviors, now recognized as symptoms of autism, were neither diagnosed nor accommodated. By 1975, when my son was in first grade, awareness of autism was still limited. I remember receiving a call from his teacher, who informed me that my son had left the classroom after being admonished for reading a comic book duri...

Updated version from Oct. 2024 Phytanic acid is a branched-chain fatty acid derived from the metabolism of phytol, which is found in foods such as dairy products, ruminant fats (e.g., beef, lamb), and certain fish. While small amounts of phytanic acid are typically processed and metabolized in the liver, abnormally high levels can result in toxic accumulation, leading to a variety of symptoms. This condition is often associated with a rare genetic disorder called Refsum disease , though it can also occur due to dietary excess in people with impaired metabolism of this compound. What Causes High Phytanic Acid? Elevated phytanic acid levels result from impaired breakdown of this fatty acid in the body. Normally, the enzyme phytanoyl-CoA hydroxylase (encoded by the PHYH gene) initiates the breakdown of phytanic acid through a process called alpha-oxidation . If this enzyme or its associated metabolic pathway is dysfunctional, phytanic acid accumulates in tissues and blood. Common Causes:...

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that shapes how individuals perceive, interact, and communicate with the world around them. It can affect a person’s ability to engage socially, adapt to changes, and process sensory input. Autism is described as a "spectrum" because symptoms, abilities, and challenges vary widely from person to person. Understanding these symptoms in depth is key to fostering awareness and supporting individuals on the spectrum. Rarely researched in the field of autism is the role of the endocrine system.   Role of the Endocrine System in Autism: A Brief Overview Before discussing autism symptoms, it’s worth exploring how the endocrine system and neurotransmitters may influence autism. While autism is primarily rooted in neurodevelopmental differences, certain hormones and neurotransmitters have been linked to autism-related traits. Examples include:     Dopamine: Plays a role in motivation, reward, and ...