New cell producing stem found in the brain

Researchers have found a promising new stem cell in the brain that has the ability to form brain cells.

The Lund University study identified a series of stem cells around small blood vessels, which they believe proliferate and create new brain cells and other cell forms.

Although the specific function of the cells are unclear from initial brain tissue biopsies, their plastic properties indicate that they have amazing potential for treating brain injury and the damage done to the brain by stroke and other such illnesses.

Those involved in the study also hope that the discovery will lead to new treatments for dementia, the prevalence of which is rising in the world's population.

Dr Gesine Paul-Visse, associate professor of Neuroscience at Lund University, commented: "Our findings show that the cell capacity is much larger than we originally thought, and that these cells are very versatile."

What's more, the ability of the stem cells to create not just brain cells but other cell types can increase knowledge on the plasticity of the brain.

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