Stem Cells For Nervous System Repair
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Neurology / Neuroscience
Main Category: Stem Cell Research News
Article Date: 21 Apr 2006 - 13:00pm (PDT)
Stem cells appear to be a promising source of new cells for repair of the nervous system, both in the brain and spinal cord. In an animal model, researchers showed that neural stem cells that expressed a cell survival factor called MEF2 could help repair the brain damage cause by stroke when injected into the site of the damage. Under the influence of MEF2, the stem cells transform into active nerve cells (neurons) after injection.
A substance derived from seaweed improves regrowth of damaged neurons and new stem cells in the spinal cord, according to research from Germany. The "anisotropic capillary hydrogel," has an internal structure that preferentially guides regrowing nerve cell extensions (axons) in one direction. Researchers showed that when it was implanted in an animal model of spinal cord injury, it improved regrowth of both existing neurons and implanted cells. Growth across a spinal cord injury is a significant barrier to recovery of nerve function, suggesting that this type of strategy may play a role in improving outcomes after these injuries.
American Academy of Neurology 58th Annual Meeting
The American Academy of Neurology, an association of more than 19,000 neurologists and neuroscience professionals, is dedicated to improving patient care through education and research. A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson disease, and stroke.
Contact: Robin Stinnett
rstinnett@aan.com
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