Lab-grown brain-spinal cord shows 'irreversible' nerve damage may be reversed

14 hours ago

Cambridge scientists used patient-derived stem cells to grow brain and spinal cord organoids, mimicking central nervous system connections.
Research shows axon regrowth ability sharply declines after around day 150 of development, corresponding to mid-pregnancy stages.
A genetic network acting as a 'switch' was identified that restricts axon growth as neurons mature; blocking key regulators restored growth ability.
Screening drugs targeting this network identified lynestrenol, a hormone drug that significantly boosted axon regrowth in damaged neurons.
The study suggests damage previously considered irreversible may be reversible by directly targeting human neurons to regenerate axons.
Organoid models bridge gaps between animal studies and human biology, offering more accurate insights and reducing reliance on animal research.
Findings provide hope for future treatments for conditions like spinal cord injury, motor neurone disease, and multiple sclerosis.

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