Simple drug formula regenerates brain cells
Researchers have taken a step forward in the quest for a pill that can recover brain function lost through strokes, brain injuries, and conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists at Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) in State College converted glial cells into functioning neurons by using a combination of just four small molecules.
Glial cells, among other things, can support and protect neurons, which are cells that perform the mental functions of the brain.
In a new study paper that now features in the journal Stem Cell Reports, the researchers describe how their converted neurons survived for more than 7 months in laboratory cultures.
The new neurons also showed an ability to work like normal brain cells. They formed networks and communicated with each other using both electrical and chemical signals.
Glial cells proliferate after injury
Senior study author Gong Chen, who is a professor of biology at Penn State, explains that neurons do not regenerate when brain tissue becomes damaged.
"In contrast," he adds, "glial cells, which gather around damaged brain tissue, can proliferate after brain injury."
In their study paper, he and his team explain how glial cells form scars that protect the neurons from further injury.
