Stem cells and MND
What are stem cells and how could they be used towards the goal of an effective treatment for MND?
What are stem cells?
Stem cells are cells that have not yet become specialised to perform a particular function. They can renew themselves and have the potential to give rise to many different cell types, including neurones and nervous system support cells.
The main types of stem cells are embryonic, induced pluripotent stem cells, umbilical cord and adult stem cells. Their uses in medicine include research to understand underlying causes of disease, such as MND, and the development of new therapies.
The use of stem cell therapy for MND may eventually be possible. However, research in this area is at an extremely early stage.
Stem cells are becoming a valuable tool for researchers trying to understand the underlying mechanisms of MND.
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