US scientists grow replica of human brain in a laboratory
Scientists from United States (US) have successfully grown a replica of a human brain in a laboratory dish.
This medical breakthrough research was undertaken team of researchers from Ohio State University led by Professor Rene Anand.
Key facts
- The brain called ‘Organoid’ was created from reprogrammed skin cells. It is about the size of a pencil eraser.
- In order to build the replica human brain, the research team had transformed adult skin cells by altering their genes into induced pluripotent stem (IPS) cells.
- This had resulted in artificial creation of stem cells which were then wheedled into developing different cell types and signalling circuitry of the brain including neurons and their signal-carrying projections, axons and dendrites along with blood circulation.
- This artificially grown brain also contains support and immune cells.
Potential Application: This medical breakthrough can act as an essential tool in the testing of new drugs and research into brain disorders including Alzheimer.
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Month: Current Affairs - August, 2015