Researchers Generate New Neurons in Brains, Spinal Cords of Living Adult Mammals

Recent findings published in the journal Nature Communications documented UT Southwestern Medical Center’s successful attempt at creating new nerve cells in the brains and spinal cords of living mammals without the need for stem cell transplants to replenish lost cells. However, the researchers stressed that it is too soon to know whether the neurons created in these initial studies resulted in any functional improvements. Spinal cord injuries can lead to an irreversible loss of neurons and can ultimately lead to impaired motor and sensory functions. Scientists are hopeful that regenerating cells can be an avenue to repair damage. However, adult spinal cords have limited ability to produce new neurons. Biomedical scientists have transplanted stem cells to replace neurons, but have faced other hurdles, highlighting the need for new methods of replenishing lost cells. To read more about this study, click here.