Tourette syndrome is a disorder of the nervous system which is characterized by tics in movement and speech. It will usually appear in childhood, and for some, it may diminish in adulthood. It seems to run in families.
The Tourette Syndrome Association says that it has been believed that there are brain abnormalities and problems with some neurotransmitters. Tourette syndrome often exists in tandem with ADHD, depression, learning disabilities and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
New research seems to be pointing to some new answers. Researchers found a genetic mutation which affects the neurotransmitter histamine in the central nervous system.
"Drugs that increase the release of histamine in the brain, but don't affect histamine levels in other parts of the body, are in the latter stages of development. Previous research has also shown that when given to mice, the drugs decrease the repetitive behaviors."
It is hoped that this new data on Tourette syndrome and histamine will lead to new treatments.
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