Strokes cause 10.41 per cent of all deaths in Malta. It is also the most common cause of disability. Thus, it is crucial that the brain is protected from further damage after a stroke. 

[attach id=697371 size="medium" align="right"]White matter is found in the deeper tissues of the brain (subcortical). It contains nerve fibres (axons), which are extensions of nerve cells (neurons). Photo: Shutterstock.com[/attach]

Mario Valentino, associate professor in neuroscience at the University of Malta, will review some of the published research that has been carried out in his laboratory on new brain treatment strategies.

Considering the increase in life expectancy our society is experiencing, the already staggering numbers are likely to grow. During what is termed as an ischemic stroke, blood is cut off from the brain and cells no longer receive oxygen, therefore they start to die within seconds.

The adult human brain weighs about 1.36kg. It is made up of white matter and grey matter. White matter makes up half of the brain and is made up of nerve fibres covered with a fatty layer that allows the electrical nerve signals to travel efficiently. 

This is very critical for the functioning of the brain in order to faithfully transmit and receive messages. White matter also receives less blood from the body, compared to grey matter, and is therefore most sensitive and vulnerable during a stroke. So, what happens to the white matter if a person experiences a stroke?

According to the latest WHO data published in 2014, 132 men and 102 women per 100,000 died from strokes in Malta in 2011 – which means that stroke was the third most common cause of death in men and the second most common in women, reaching 10.41 per cent of total deaths.

The talk is being held at Studio B, Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier on Wednesday at 7.30pm. This event is part of the Malta Café Scientifique 2018/2019 programme of talks. Malta Café Scientifique can be found on Facebook and online.