One of the most interesting feats that the human body can achieve (in my opinion) is natural regeneration. The fact that even after grievous injuries with enough time and rest the body can repair itself to a proper working state is pretty amazing. Injuries to extremities usually heal with little issue, but there can be more permanent damage when nerves are involved. Due to the complicated nature of nerves and neurons, regeneration is more difficult, but not impossible. Additionally, while neuronal regeneration is seen in early development, the ability is vastly decreased and is almost nonexistent later in life. Due to this, it was widely considered impossible for neurons to undergo any sort of regeneration in the CNS until more recently.
Due to their unique nature, stem cells are being researched as a possible option to aid in neuronal repair after injuries. Stem cells can develop into many different types of specialized cells. Hematopoietic stem cells are one type, and they were primarily considered due to the fact that they become motile, especially in blood circulation. Research has shown that after a stroke, the mobilization of these cells correlates with the recovery of function. These cells in particular have also been proposed as ideal graft sources due to their safety. Another type of stem cell being researched is endothelial progenitor cells. These cells are normally found in the blood and umbilical cord and are a good candidate for helping with cerebrovascular disease. Research shows that EPCs can be used as a biomarker for cardiovascular disease, with lower counts correlating to functional impairments. These cells could potentially be used to repair the blood-brain barrier due to damage to brain vasculature. These cells would be able to repair the endothelium and ensure that there is no more foreign material entering into the brain via the bloodstream, while also ensuring that the brain has ample nutrients.
Overall, the fact that stem cells found originally in different parts of the body can be used to aid in repairing neurons and brain function after an injury is very fascinating. If this type of research continues, the way we think about bodily harm and regeneration in general could be changed for the better!
Source:
Dailey T, Tajiri N, Kaneko Y, Borlongan CV. Regeneration of neuronal cells following cerebral injury. Front Neurol Neurosci. 2013;32:54-61. doi: 10.1159/000346407. Epub 2013 Jul 8. PMID: 23859963; PMCID: PMC3761218.
I recently read that stem cells could potentially have complications like the formation of teratomas or genetic instability. What do you think would be the best way to improve stem cell development in order to be able to avoid any complications to their use for clinical treatment in humans? Do you think it is possible that we will one day be able to avoid any and all potential complications of stem cells?
ReplyDeleteHaider, K. H. (Ed.). (2021). Stem cells : latest advances. Springer.