FutureWire - futurism and emerging technology

Wednesday, February 02, 2005

Stem Cells Transformed Into Nerve Cells

Scientists at the University of Wisconsin have made a critical breakthrough in creating spinal motor neurons from human embryonic stem cells. This research holds great promise for the treatment of spinal injuries and neurological diseases.

The catch, however, is that the scientists have thus far only been able to create these neurons with human embryonic stem cells. Unless it proves possible to use adult human or non-human stem cells, research in this area could be hampered by current US government funding restrictions.

Source: KurzweilAI.net