Scientists Create Stable, Self-Renewing Neural Stem Cells

Scientists Create Stable, Self-Renewing Neural Stem Cells

ScienceDaily (Apr. 26, 2011) — In a paper published in the April 25 early online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, the Gladstone Institutes in San Francisco and colleagues report a game-changing advance in stem cell science: the creation of long-term, self-renewing, primitive neural precursor cells from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) that can be directed to become many types of neuron without increased risk of tumor formation.

"It's a big step forward," said Kang Zhang, MD, PhD, professor of ophthalmology and human genetics at Shiley Eye Center and director of the Institute for Genomic Medicine, both at UC San Diego. "It means we can generate stable, renewable neural stem cells or downstream products quickly, in great quantities and in a clinical grade -- millions in less than a week -- that can be used for clinical trials and, eventually, for clinical treatments. Until now, that has not been possible."

Human embryonic stem cells hold great promise in regenerative medicine due to their ability to become any kind of cell needed to repair and restore damaged tissues. But the potential of hESCs has been constrained by a number of practical problems, not least among them the difficulty of growing sufficient quantities of stable, usable cells and the risk that some of these cells might form tumors.

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Another breakthrough in the field of regerative medicine. Coupled with the stem cell advance regarding burn patients I think we are pretty much at the start of better living and limitless possibilities with regards to the human body..

Now, if we can cure the common cold.

reply to post by Xcathdra


this is good news for those who've suffered from brain damaging trauma. their memories will never return but their brain function will. science is awesome.

If they'll actually use it, yeah, it will be great. Sadly, pharmaceutical companies aren't in the business of curing people because there's no money in it. They'll figure out a way to make sure you have to get infusions for the rest of your life so they can charge for it over and over.

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Wow!
For those who may not realize: THIS IS HUGE!
Also, I've read some researchs being done in Cuba, and that too could lead to incredible medical advances.
The future was now for a long time...