Scientists from America and Japan have worked together to discovered new stem cells for potential stroke treatment. Researchers have been working towards using stem cells to repair the brain after a stroke for many years. Unfortunately, studies have shown various problems associated with the use of stem cells in laboratory studies. They often differentiate into unexpected cell types and carry the risk of forming tumours.

The new research has shown that rats with stoke showed significant improvements when treated with a newly discovered stem cell type called Muse cells (multilineage-differentiating stress-enduring cells). The rats showed “significant improvements” in motor function and neurological performance compared to control groups. Researchers discovered that the Muse cells, unlike other types of stem cells, do not cause tumours. The paper was published in the most recent issue of the journal Stem Cells (September 2015).

The lead author, Dr. Cesar V Borlongan, describes the benefits of Muse cells, saying: “Muse cells are unique stem cells that are able to self-renew and also display high efficiency for differentiating into neurone-like cells. Unlike mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that have previously been used in stem cell transplantation in stroke-related clinical trials, in the present study Muse cells were found to possess functional characteristics of neurones as they attain the attributes of the host microenvironment. When Muse cells were transplanted into to the brains of rats modelled with stroke, they attained neuronal characteristics.”

Scientists have discovered Muse cells throughout the body, including in bone marrow, fat tissue and the skin. They can be derived from dermal fibroblasts, which are common throughout the human body. The Muse cells were also found to exhibit tissue repair qualities once they had entered the blood stream.

Researches say that foetal pluripotent stem cells “appear” to be the best choice for developing neuronal cells, because they are naturally inclined to develop that way. However, their immaturity makes them more likely to cause a tumour. The use of foetal stem cells is also very controversial.

Muse cells are easily collected from patient skin biopsies and do not have to be genetically manipulated before being used. Other types of stem cells often have to be induced to become pluripotent before being used. The research is an important breakthrough for developing a stem cell treatment for stroke.

Source: Transplantation of unique, newly discovered stems cells may lead to promising stroke therapy

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