Master Stem Cell Discovered

Scientists have discovered the master gene responsible for the development of all cells within the human brain and the central nervous system. The exciting discovery was made by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This latest discovery is a huge step for scientists working to discover what causes some neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Once scientists trace the causes, treatments are most likely soon to follow.

Su-Chun Zhang, a professor of anatomy and neurology at the school led the study. Zhang has been involved in stem cell research for the last 10 years. He believes with this new information, scientists may be able to generate new brain stem cells. This rejuvenation process may even be able to be done within the brain instead of a petri dish. The ability to generate large numbers of early brain stem cells could potentially lead to a scientist being able to produce neurons or glial cells. This potential stem cell development may make it possible for a doctor to repair any damage caused by a disease internally.

Researchers discovered this is a unique gene within the human brain. The gene deemed Pax6 dictates the development of all cells in the brain and nervous system. When researchers removed the Pax6 gene from embryonic stem cells, they noted the cells were stunted and unable to progress beyond the embryonic stage. However, mice did not have the same issue when the Pax6 was removed.

The study and its findings have been published in the Cell Stem Cell journal.