According to statistics, one in four adults suffers a stroke during their lifetime, and approximately half are left with complications such as paralysis, speech impairment, and other complications. These conditions arise because internal bleeding or lack of oxygen irreversibly kills brain cells. Modern medicine does not yet have effective treatments for such injuries, so great hopes are pinned on stem cells.
Scientists from the University of Zurich conducted a new experimental treatment using stem cells. To treat mice after a stroke, they used human stem cells, which can transform into various types of nervous system cells.
The cells were injected one week after the stroke. Over five weeks of observation, the scientists observed complete survival of these cells, as well as the transformation of most of them into new neurons. In addition to the new neurons, which successfully interacted with other cells, the scientists observed key signs of tissue regeneration.
For example, the growth of new blood vessels, reduced inflammation, and improved blood-brain barrier integrity were observed. Most importantly, the treatment reversed movement disorders after stroke.
Scientists are now preparing to conduct clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the treatment in humans.
Previously, other scientists found that the sweetener erythritol, considered a safe product, damages brain cells and increases the risk of stroke.
