"Enzyme BVRA Shields Neurons from Oxidative Stress Beyond Bilirubin Role"

Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that the enzyme BVRA protects neurons from oxidative stress independently of bilirubin, suggesting a new avenue for combating neurodegenerative diseases.

• Research at Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that the enzyme biliverdin reductase A (BVRA) shields neurons from oxidative stress by influencing the NFE2L2 protein, crucial for cellular protection.
• Genetically engineered mice in the study demonstrated that BVRAs protective role extends beyond its function in producing bilirubin, highlighting its significance in neuronal health.
• The findings suggest potential therapeutic implications for conditions like Alzheimers disease, where oxidative stress contributes to neuronal damage and degeneration.