Umbilical cords may offer brain injury treatmentRSS Feed

Cells collected from the blood of human umbilical cord cells (HUCBs) could soon be used to treat brain injury caused by stroke.

Researchers from the University of South Florida have successfully demonstrated that umbilical cord cells can be used to treat rat brain cells deprived of oxygen.

Results appear to show that astrocytes - a particular type of star-shaped cell found in the brain and spine - are protected from cell death following stroke-like damage.

Commenting on the findings, which are published in the August issue of the Stem Cell Review and Reports, lead author professor Alison Willing explained that the results are far from clear at this stage, and advises further research is necessary.

She added: "HUCBs are composed of different types of immune cells and have the ability to secrete both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

"This suggests that the cells may promote recovery following stroke by regulating inflammatory responses and providing support for neural cells, such as astrocytes."

Meanwhile, recent research by scientists at the Henry Ford Neuroscience Institute has suggested that Vitamin B3 may help to improve neurological function following stroke.

News brought to you by Serious Law specialists in brain injury

Posted by John Sherrington

Traumatic brain injury 'a high risk when sledding'

24 August 2010

Traumatic brain injury is a high risk factor among those involved in sledding collisions, new research shows. More than half of all injuries sustained while partaking in this popular winter pastime are...

Read More...

Woman left with brain injury after Rottweiler incident

20 August 2010

In a case that shows just how easy a life can change forever, a woman in the US has been left with a brain injury after hitting her head on a pavement when she was knocked down by a dog.Kristy Koetje,...

Read More...

Alcohol-related brain injury warning

20 August 2010

People in Scotland who have been diagnosed with acquired brain injury (ABI) or alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD) may be missing out on the correct treatment because of wrong diagnoses, a new report claims.The...

Read More...