Neuromelanin

New research is coming out on neuromelanin. The old research data from the 1980's is being proven again in the new neuroscience. Melanin pigments are derivatives of the amino acid tyrosine. Neuromelanin is a strong chelator of metals as it accumulates iron, zinc and other trace metals. In the brain, dopamine neurons of substantia nigra the complex neuromelanin-Fe is the major iron deposit. In physiological conditions neuromelanin plays a neuroprotective role by blocking iron and other toxic metals (Cu, Mn, Cr, Hg, Cd & more). A continuous, linear accumulation of neuromelanin-Fe complex is observed in substantia nigra during the entire life span, but a dramatic decrease occurs in Parkinson's Disease. Neuromelanin may provide an antioxidant mechanism for catecholamine neurons. Also, the extraneuronal neuromelanin, released by dying neurons, is neurotoxic since it activates microglia with release of toxic molecules (NO, TNF and IL-6) which can damage neurons. Drugs able to block the neuromelanin induced activation of microglia have been found and this provides a new therapeutic approach for Parkinson's disease. A possible role of phospholipid hydroperoxidase glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in protection from oxidative stress indicating a possible neuroprotective role and some findings suggest this enzyme may contribute to the production of neuromelanin.

7 Deadly Social Sins

Mahatma Gandhi's 7 deadly social sins:

Wealth without Work
Pleasure without Conscience
Science without Humanity
Knowledge without Character
Politics without Principle
Commerce without Morality
Worship without Sacrifice

Albert Einstein, one of the greatest minds humanity has produced, once said of Gandhi that "Generations to come will scarce believe that such a one as this walked the earth in flesh and blood." One of the most effective politicians in history, he demonstrated the practical truth that the way of applied Soul force using non-violent techniques is the most powerful political tool we have. In spite of his work, the 7 deadly social sins are still with us in the 21st century.