Stem Cells Replace Stroke-Damaged Tissue in Rats

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A major step in creating effective stem cell treatment for strokes is now complete. Scientists in England have successfully replaced stroke damaged brain tissue in rats.

The team of researchers showed it is possible to fill a hole left by stroke damage with brand new tissue. They did it by inserting tiny scaffolding with stem cells attached. 

The researchers said the new tissue develops within seven days. An MRI scanner was used to pinpoint precisely the right place to inject the stem cells.

"This research is another step towards using stem cell therapy in treating and reversing the brain damage caused by stroke," Joe Korner, of The Stroke Association in London, was quoted as saying. Korner also said the development of stem cell therapy is still in the early stages and much more research is needed before it can be tested on humans.

SOURCE: Biomaterials,  March 2009