Awakening Brain Stem Cells Gives Hope for Repairing Brain Damage

Summary: Scientists have identified molecules which will allow them to awaken or put to sleep brain cells. The activation of these cells may allow scientists to transform them into neurons, which can, in turn, be employed in the repair of damaged brain tissue. The impact of this research may be far reaching, allowing for new methods of treating Alzheimer's and Parkinsons's diseases.

Comment: It was previously thought that stem cells to be used in this process could only be found in two parts of the brain. This research, however, has proved that stem cells can be found throughout the brain, giving doctors and scientists much greater possibilities in the development of this treatment.

Read article - Science Daily. June 9, 2008.