Thanks to a stem cell transplants and the miracle of science, rats that were paralyzed get a second chance and walk again after stem cells were transplanted.
According to Technology Review, rats once paralyzed from complete surgical cuts through their spinal cords can walk again after stem cell transplants into the site of their injuries. While those who are reading this might be wondering what the big deal is, this latest development in stem cell therapy shows that stem cells have the potential to heal patients that have completely severed cords.
In the experiment, neural stem cells, which are cells that come from aborted fetal spinal cord tissue, were implanted onto each side of the spinal cord injury in the rats. Along with the stem cells, a supportive matrix and molecular growth factors were placed as well. Amazingly enough, the human stem cells grew into the damaged area and extended delicate cellular projections known as axons into the rats spinal cord. After the spinal cord was seemingly healed, scientists tested the rats and were stunned to find that rats’ own neurons sent axons into the transplanted material and the rats were able to move all joints of their hind legs successfully.
The Rockville, Maryland company called Neuralstem provided the stem cells, where those same cells are also being tested in ALS patients. In those test, scientist report that the neural stem cells have shown promise in stabilizing the disease. The company recently announced that it is seeking the FDA’s approval to start testing on humans.
photo by Charles Jeffrey Danoff
Rats That Was Paralyzed Walks Thanks to a Stem Cell Transplants.
