SEATTLE, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- Washington scientists said Wednesday that some nerves, even nerves in parts of the brain, can regenerate or be replaced using stem cells found in adults.
By studying the chemical signals that encourage or impede the repair of nerves, researchers at the University of Washington, the Salk Institute, and other institutions may contribute to eventual treatments for injured spines and diseased retinas, Science Daily Magazine reported Wednesday.
Much of this research focuses on stem cells, one of several types of general cells that can give rise to specialized cells.
It was once thought that human stem cells were only found in embryos and in bone marrow, but stem cells are also being found in adults, including in the brain and the eye.
However, the pace of stem-cell repairs in humans is slow. And in some cases, stem cells can even impede healing. Stem cells in an injured spinal cord can create a sticky scar that blocks nerve regeneration, but scientists are hoping to find a way to manipulate this process to promote healing.
