Health

Study Suggests Maintaining Klotho Protein Levels Protects Against ALS-Related Nerve Degeneration

Published

4 years ago

March 26, 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gherig’s Disease after the famous baseball player who was forced to retire after experiencing the disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative disease. The medical term for ALS accurately describes the effects the disease has on patients. Amyotrophic refers to three root terms: a meaning “no,” myo meaning “muscle,” and trophic meaning nourishment, all of which combine to indicate that the condition leads to no nourishment of muscle tissue and atrophy, or wasting away, of the affected tissue. Lateral indicates the upper and lower areas of the spinal cord that lead to muscle atrophy, and sclerosis refers to the hardening and scarring of the affected regions.

In ALS, motor neurons that provide an essential connection between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body degenerate or deteriorate rapidly. When the motor neurons eventually die, the brain can no longer cause or control muscle movement, leading to their eventual atrophy. Soon after, individuals can experience partial or total paralysis of voluntary muscles, leading to an inability to control muscle movement, speak, eat, and even breathe. The average life expectancy after receiving an ALS diagnosis is between three and five years.

Lack of Available Treatments

Currently, there is no cure for ALS. While familial, or inherited, ALS accounts for some cases of the disease, nearly 95% of cases occur sporadically, without any known genetic precursor.

In an effort to find a potential preventive treatment for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases, researchers at Boston University’s School of Medicine have turned to study biological models that simulate neurodegenerative conditions. As a result, scientists have identified a certain protein that appears to serve a unique, beneficial purpose in protecting the brain from the mechanisms of ALS.

Klotho Protein

In Boston University’s School of Medicine laboratory model, researchers identified an anti-aging protein called klotho protein that showed neuroprotective effects. In fact, increasing klotho protein levels reduced neurological deficits in experimental models of both Alzheimer’s Disease and multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers then posited that klotho protein increases may aid in protecting the brain against other neurodegenerative diseases, as well.

In a subsequent study on a laboratory model, klotho protein provided similar neuroprotective effects against ALS. Klotho protein was shown to reduce ALS-associated neurological deficits, thus providing a potential decrease in the manifestation of symptoms. In conjunction with the presence of anti-inflammatory brain cells called microglia, klotho protein shows potential to protect the brain against inflammation, degeneration, and motor neuron loss.

Future Implications

Klotho protein therapy, along with other activities that increase klotho levels, have been shown to potentially prolong the life of an ALS patient by as much as 300 days. Further, increasing klotho levels appears to improve quality of life by reducing ALS symptoms in patients who have already discovered the disease.

While the klotho protein has long shown benefits for other neurodegenerative diseases, this new information provides hope and potential therapeutic applications for the thousands of patients currently suffering from ALS.

Resources:

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-06/buso-pop062719.php
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12031-019-01356-2
https://www.als.org/understanding-als/what-is-als

Health

Global Clients on Dentzz Dental: Reviews Show Why It’s a Top Choice for Dental Implants

Published

4 hours ago

January 29, 2025

Michelle Langton

Photo credit: Dentzz Dental

Byline: Nicholas R. Eastman

The dental implant market has witnessed significant growth, with patients increasingly seeking international options for affordable and high-quality care. Among these, Dentzz Dental has garnered attention as a popular destination for dental tourism, attracting clients from Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand. Patients often cite substantial cost savings, cutting-edge technology, and efficient treatment timelines as factors influencing their decision to travel.

According to market reports, the global dental implant market is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 9.8 percent through 2030, fueled by technological advancements and rising demand among patients over 50. For many, procedures that are cost-prohibitive in Western countries have become accessible through clinics like Dentzz, which combine affordability with internationally recognized standards.

Patient Reviews Highlight Cost and Quality Advantages

Patient reviews, mainly from Australia, where over 30,000 Dentzz clients originate, provide valuable insight into the clinic’s appeal. Many highlight savings of approximately 40 percent compared to procedures performed domestically. Treatments such as full-mouth reconstructions, which cost upwards of $80,000 in Australia, are offered at significantly lower rates.

“Cost is a major factor, but patients are also looking for consistency in outcomes and access to advanced technology,” says Shantanu Jaradi, CEO of Dentzz Dental. “We have managed to strike that balance by offering international quality standards at competitive prices.”

Reviews also emphasize the comprehensive consultation process offered at Dentzz, which helps patients make informed decisions. Many mention the clarity and transparency in communication as critical in building trust and confidence, especially for individuals traveling long distances.

Technology and Streamlined Timelines Draw International Clients

Patient feedback reflects that technological advancements play a central role in Dentzz’s offerings. The clinic utilizes equipment from the U.S., U.K., and Germany, including 3D CT scanners and CAD/CAM systems. These tools support precision diagnostics and treatment planning, reducing the risk of complications in complex procedures like dental implants and smile makeovers.

Another factor that resonates with international patients is Dentzz’s ability to complete procedures within 10 to 12 days. Reviews consistently highlight this efficiency, particularly for working professionals who cannot afford extended time away from home. This streamlined approach has become essential in making dental tourism viable for clients globally.

“Our treatment protocols are designed to minimize patient inconvenience without compromising the quality of care,” Jaradi explains. “This has been particularly valuable for patients traveling from abroad.”

Long-Term Care and Patient Satisfaction

A standout feature frequently mentioned in reviews is Dentzz’s long-term care policies, including a 20-year warranty program. This offering, rare in the dental tourism sector, provides peace of mind to patients concerned about potential complications after returning home.

Many international clients praise the clinic’s post-treatment care system, which includes follow-ups and communication channels for addressing concerns remotely. This emphasis on long-term support has contributed to high patient satisfaction rates, reflected in Google reviews and independent health surveys.

Dentzz has been ranked Mumbai’s leading dental provider by the Times of India health surveys for seven consecutive years. Similar accolades have been earned in Delhi, where the clinic has held the top position for three years. These rankings, supported by an annual revenue growth of 30 percent, underline the clinic’s growing prominence in the sector.

Expanding Patient Demographics and Global Reach

Recent data reveals a growing base of patients beyond Dentzz’s traditional Australian clientele. Clients from the U.S., U.K., Africa, and the Middle East now represent a significant share of the clinic’s international patient pool. Many of these individuals are over 50 and seek solutions for complex dental issues such as tooth loss and deteriorating oral health.

Patient reviews suggest that Dentzz’s demographic expansion is linked to its ability to address the specific needs of older patients, offering advanced implantology and full-mouth reconstructions. These treatments are often unaffordable in Western healthcare systems, making Dentzz an attractive alternative.

“Patients are looking for reliability, affordability, and a global standard of care,” Jaradi observes. “This combination has allowed us to cater to a more diverse clientele.”

Reviews as a Guide for Future Service Delivery

Dentzz values patient feedback as a means of refining its operations. Reviews consistently highlight strengths such as advanced technology, efficiency, and long-term care but also point out areas for improvement, such as wait times during peak seasons. The clinic has used this feedback to enhance scheduling and resource allocation.

Dentzz continues to position itself as a key player in the dental tourism industry by adapting to the needs and preferences of its international clients. The focus on maintaining high-quality care while expanding its global reach underscores its relevance in a competitive market.