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Astrocyte, the most common brain cell (contrary to popular belief that neurons are), has been grown in a lab for the first time. Astrocytes are small, star-shaped cells in the brain that act like the neuron’s bodyguards, and because of that they play an important role in diseases of the central nervous system.

Astrocytes protect neurons by performing basic functions, like regulating blood flow, cleaning up excess neurotransmitters (the communication molecules used by neurons), and playing a key role in controlling the blood-brain barrier, which keeps toxic substances out of the brain.

The cells were created from both embryonic and adult stem cells by treating them with special proteins to get them to grow into astrocytes. These cells could also be useful as a transplant, to treat diseases like Lou Gehrig’s disease, in which the neurons are overworked. Transplanting healthy astrocytes could rescue the injured neurons.

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whoa that is so cool xD
but kind of creepy xD
thanks for sharing ~


wow! glad to hear that there will be a way to cure lots of diseases


glad that scientists are still looking into ways to cure numerous diseases~~


Wow, they’re being grown and multiplied!
This will help cure diseases big time!!!
Thanks for sharing!!~



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