Skin transformed into brain cells (advance, problem, issue)

[Brian.Pearson]

The experiment, reported in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, skipped the middle "stem cell" stage in the process.
The researchers said they were "thrilled" at the potential medical uses.
Far more tests are needed before the technique could be used on human skin.


Stem cells, which can become any other specialist type of cell from brain to bone, are thought to have huge promise in a range of treatments. Many trials are taking place, such as in stroke patients or specific forms of blindness.


One of the big questions for the field is where to get the cells from. There are ethical concerns around embryonic stem cells and patients would need to take immunosuppressant drugs as any stem cell tissue would not match their own.

[Six Foot Three]

While it's always good to read about stem cell advances however it's probably some 10-15 years away until we start seeing it help people with different degenerative diseases

[Brian.Pearson]

I agree. I have a problem with thinning of the sclera, albeit slowly. Doc says I 'll have to use special drops that will make my eyelashes grow -- I'll have to trim them periodically. Also, the the lashes will look darker more feminine. Well it's better than nothing.