Surviving Traumatic Brain Injury

SPEAK OUT! NewsBits ………………. Stem Cells from Teeth

Stem Cells from Teeth Can Make Brain-like Cells

Exciting basic research from Australia could be relevant to TBI survivors. Scientists have isolated stem cells from teeth that can be induced to form neuron-like cells. Stem cells, which everybody has, have the potential to make new tissues and organs. Already stem cells are being used to repair damaged hearts in animals and to grow new cartilage in the laboratory that should eliminate joint pain in humans. It is thought that human life expectancy may be related to the number of stem cells in the body. The Australian scientists believe it is only a matter of time that the stem cells from teeth can be made into true neurons. The ability to insert into the body neurons or neuron complexes in the form of neuronal circuits could alleviate some of the problems brought on by TBI and stroke. (Full story)