US researchers have found a way to reverse Down syndrome in mice using an experimental compound that causes the brain to grow normally. This initial treatment paves a pathway for future breakthroughs.

As far as we are concerned, there is no cure for Down syndrome. It is caused by an additional chromosome and results in intellectual disabilities, distinctive physical features, and other health issues.

The compound was injected in mice who had extra copies of human genes, resulting in similar results such as difficulty learning mazes, and smaller brains. When the compound was injected in the newborn mice, the results were amazing! The compound was able to completely normalise the growth of the cerebellum all the way through adulthood through a single injection.

The treatment has not yet been proven safe for human use, but is a significant step in combating the condition in the future.