Transplanted Neurons May End Seizures
A recently published paper in Nature showed that a neuron transplant might have the potential to improve someone’s memory, as well as stop seizures following a traumatic brain injury. This research paper came from a series of labs based out of the University of California, Irvine. The potential treatment discussed in this paper matters because millions of people in the United States suffer a TBI every year. Brain injuries have the potential to cause inflammation in the brain, leading to cell death. Sadly, much of the damage stemming from a head injury is thought to be irreversible.
If the information from this research paper can translate to the clinical setting, it has the potential to help countless people all over the country. By stopping seizures and improving memory, this treatment can drastically improve someone’s quality of life.
The Design of the Research Study
In the study, researchers transplanted embryonic cells that are capable of dividing into a class of cells called inhibitory neurons. These neurons were implanted into the brains of mice who had suffered a TBI. The neurons were placed in an area of the brain called the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory and learning.
The researchers decided to use inhibitory neurons because they play a significant role in numerous aspects of someone’s memory formation process. Furthermore, these neurons are particularly vulnerable when someone has suffered a traumatic brain injury. Even though researchers know that, right now, they cannot stop these cells from dying following a TBI, the hope is that they can be replaced using this neuron transplant process.
The Results of the Neuron Transplant Research Study
The researchers found that the transplanted neurons started to move to the site of the injury. Once in position, these neurons formed new circuits. The neuron transplant process led to the formation of new circuits within about a month. Around this time, the mice started to show signs of memory improvement. The mice appeared to learn their way around their box and were able to distinguish safe conditions from unsafe ones.
When these mice were compared to those who had not suffered a traumatic brain injury, they performed just as well. Also, the mice who received a neuron transplant did not develop epilepsy, which is a common complication following a head injury. This neuron transplant process shows that seizures can be prevented, and memory can improve following a TBI.
Future Directions in Neuron Research
Scientists have been trying to regrow neurons following a TBI for decades. Sadly, many of these transplanted cells do not survive. Other neurons haven’t been able to develop into functional neurons. To test their progress, the researchers injected a drug that silenced the transplanted neurons. Memory problems quickly returned, further showing that their transplanted neurons were effective.
Right now, there are not a lot of treatment options available for people who have suffered a traumatic brain injury. The results of this research provide hope to countless people who suffer a head injury every year. If these results can be replicated in human trials, it has the potential to change the way traumatic brain injuries are treated.
Watch YouTube Video: Stem Cell Neurons May End Seizures, Improve Brain Function. This video discusses how implanted stem cell neurons can stop seizures and improve cognitive function.
San Francisco Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a San Francisco Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer. A neuron transplant may be an effective treatment option for individuals suffering from seizures and memory issues following a TBI. If someone you love has suffered complications following a traumatic brain injury in an accident, call me for free, friendly advice at (415) 805-7284 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
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Citation of Images: Pixabay.com
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