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A study released by the Journal of Neuroscience indicates that when individuals sustain brain injuries, their brains stop benefiting from certain molecules that promote memory. The researchers also suggest that a new experimental medication called PDE4B might increase the functionality of these compounds. In tests, the PDE4B inhibitors were demonstrated to reverse some brain-injury-related memory problems in animals.

News reports say PDE4-class chemicals have been tested in brain injury treatments as far back as the 1990s, but some of these studies resulted in patients experiencing serious side effects. According to the researchers, the most recent trial was free of such negative impacts and may provide a promising method for helping individuals who sustain traumatic brain injuries.

The study was conducted by researchers from a Boston biotechnology company in conjunction with staff from the University of Miami. The company found that the way the PDE4s function could actually reestablished memory performance and learning in animals with traumatic brain injuries to levels near those of non-injured animals. Participants hope their preliminary research will eventually lead to clinical trials and point out that prior trials have already examined the idea of using drugs originally intended to treat other problems to help TBIs.

Brain injuries have many different side effects that can be life changing. In many cases, they result in neurological symptoms that make it harder for people to perform normal everyday tasks and professional duties. Although therapies and promising new drugs often help brain injury victims recover, such medical treatments usually require significant investments of time and money. Undergoing rehabilitation can derail people’s careers, compromise their relationships and hinder their ability to manage their own affairs. Talking to a head injury attorney about seeking compensation may make it easier to chart a path to recovery.