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ApoE isoform-specific regulation of regeneration in the peripheral nervous system

This work sheds light on the apoE gene, which controls how quickly nerves regenerate after injury or disease. The study showed for the first time that one form of the gene, apoE4, slowed re-growth of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, including nerves to muscles in arms, legs, and from skin. These findings were important because identifying genes that control regeneration of the nervous system takes us closer to developing personalised treatments that improve nerve re-growth and speed up recovery. This work attracted press releases by the Scotsman and Daily Express newspapers, as well as the BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-13036307).