Cholesterol Is Needed For Brain Development

Scientists from the Karol Institute have shown that a component of cholesterol is necessary for the formation of brain cells which produce dopamine.

Experiments carried out on embryos of mice, have showed that the development of neurons depends on the activation of certain receptors of the oxidized form of cholesterol - oxisterol. The cells that produce dopamine, are necessary for the development of motor skills, work reward system and dependence. They die in the first place in Parkinson's disease.

Scientists have also shown that embryonic stem cells grown in the laboratory, under the influence of cholesterol will probably dopamine neurons. The same effect can control the development of stem cells. Scientists expect to replace the dead cells of patients, growing neurons in the laboratory.