Stem cells dramatically reduce brain damage in study

By injecting stem cells extracted from bone marrow, scientists were able to coordinate the genetic response of animals, dramatically reducing the amount of brain damage triggered by a sudden interruption in the blood supply. Researchers had theorized that an injection of bone marrow cells would spur the creation of new brain cells. Instead, the scientists noted that the mice involved in the study reacted with a tamped down inflammatory and immune system response--significantly reducing the damage done. The results could influence research into new methods for limiting stroke damage.

"The big thing was finding out how these cells were helping," said senior author Dr. Darwin Prockop. "This dramatic crosstalk was very surprising. The human cells specifically turned down immune and inflammatory reactions."

- read the report from HealthDay News

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