Discovery of Brain’s 'Waste Disposal' System

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The discovery of the brain’s “waste disposal” system could transform our understanding of neurological conditions. Until now there was no evidence of the lymphatic system in the human brain – that’s the network of vessels which also transports part of the immune system around the body. The American researchers hope that this knowledge may eventually add to our understanding of brain conditions like multiple sclerosis. It’s Divali this week – and the Hindu festival is celebrated with prayers, food and fireworks. But in India firecrackers have become so popular that there is a spike in air pollution – serious for anyone with lung problems like asthma. The sale of firecrackers has been banned in Delhi - in the hope of preventing a toxic smog from blanketing the city. But some residents are more concerned with everyday pollution from cars and industry. A drug trial for an eye condition called uveitis has been stopped early because it was working so well. It affects one in six children who have juvenile idiopathic arthritis - where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints. This new treatment could stop children going blind but the cost may be too high for patients in some developing countries. (Photo: Computer generated image of the brain: Credit: Getty images)