Molecular 'brake' limits axonal regeneration after injury to nerves or spinal cord

Researchers from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have discovered a molecular switch in neurons that limits the regrowth of damaged axonal fibers. The findings, published in the journal Nature, show that blocking a protein called the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) may help neural regeneration and restore function after injuries to the peripheral nerves or spinal cord.