Scientists have discovered a new drug target for a rare but devastating brain autoimmune disorder known as "inflamed brain" or anti-NMDAR encephalitis.[user] The disease occurs when the immune system attacks NMDA receptors, which are key molecules involved in memory and thinking.[user][1][2] This leads to psychiatric symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations and catatonia, epileptic seizures and, in severe cases, death.[user][1][2][3] More than two-thirds of patients are dominated by psychiatric symptoms, which often leads to initial treatment in psychiatry instead of neurology.[1] The disease mainly affects young women and children, has a gradual course and requires long-term hospitalization in intensive care.[2][7] However, with early and aggressive immunotherapy, the condition is reversible.[2][7]