Stem Cells: The Building Blocks of Life

     The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs along the vertebrae. These nerves carry signals from the brain to the rest of the body. Injury to the spinal cord can result in paralysis. Over 250,000 people in the United States suffer from spinal cord injuries, but currently there is no effectual treatment for the injury.

     Fortunately, stem cell research offers a promising outlook for the treatment of damaged spinal cords. Researchers are seeking ways to treat spinal cord injuries by injecting stem cells derived from human umbilical cord tissue or the patient’s own bone marrow into the injury site. These stem cells can restore function to damaged nerve cells and prevent further spreading of the injury by suppressing inflammation. In experiments performed on mice with spinal cord injuries, researchers discovered that neural stem cells had significant impacts on the restoration of motor function within the mice. Researchers hope to find a cure for spinal cord injuries and replenish sensory and mobility functions to patients.