Tourette syndrome controlled by histamine

Understanding Tourette syndrome was complicated so far but now a new study has the right answers for all of the unanswered questions regarding the syndrome. The researchers discovered on an animal model that one of the causes which lead to Tourette syndrome is histidine decarboxylase (Hdc – an enzyme) deficiency. The findings are published in Cell. Hdc deficiency was identified in mice which started to have Tourettes syndrome-associated behavior. However, more research is needed in mice models to have the exact answer. In humans, the development of the syndrome is associated with dopamine D2 receptor. A rare situation can also lead to Tourettes syndrome in humans, the so-called “W317X mutation”. Histamine, if taken in-time is considered to be able to keep dopamine release under control. If this isn`t happening, this could be another reason of developing the syndrome. Researchers consider that gaining as much knowledge as possible in this regard is essential.