Brain Based Learning

Science News reported Sunday that researchers were able to grow neurons from embryonic stem cells that successfully connected with existing brain cells in newborn animals. Directing stem cells to grow into a specific kind of cell, in this case brain cells, is only the first step. Confirming that they can indeed be integrated into the organ they are meant to heal is another major hurdle that apparently has just been passed, at least on a preliminary level.

The next step is to extend this success to mature animals, and then to humans. However, this research shows that stem cells can be used for therapeutic goals. The area of the brain that researchers focused on is responsible for muscle control and is damaged in cases of spinal cord injuries and ALS, but the hope is that someday this can be extended to other parts of the brain and will have applications in treating dementia caused by Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.