Scientists have managed to create new sections of diaphragm using stem cells in animal trials. The new sections of diaphragm can be used to replace damaged or diseased sections of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a muscle that plays a major role in breathing as it contracts to fill the lungs with air. Dr Paolo Macchiarini led a team from the Karolinska Institute who made the discovery.

It is not the first time Dr Macchiarini has used stem cells to regenerate tissue. In 2008, Macchiarini used a woman’s stem cells to create a trachea in the laboratory, which was subsequently transplanted back into the patient.

The diaphragm is a complicated organ because it receives signals from other parts of the body telling it when to contract. The sections of diaphragm created using stem cells and transplanted into animals contracted as expected, showing the procedure to be a success. 

Researchers are already working towards testing the procedure in human subjects. To perform the procedure, stem cells were taken from the bone marrow of test subjects. The stem cells were then planted on a polymer matrix of proteins that is transplanted into the test subject. The stem cells then repair and regenerate the tissue in the local area.

While the procedure was a success, it cannot be used on humans until they determine exactly how it works and how safe it is. The researchers are not entirely sure why the cells performed as they did and how they managed to stay in sync with the other cells in the diaphragm.

If the upcoming clinical trials are successful, the procedure could be used to treat babies who have been born with a disease or genetic defect that affects their breathing. The technique may even be useful for regenerating and repairing other kinds of tissue including heart muscle. 

Source: Scientists Regenerate First Contracting Muscle Using Stem Cells From Rats

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