Researchers at the University of Zurich have disproved the long-held belief that the adult brain cannot replenish lost key cells. In experiments on mice using two-photon microscopy, they discovered that the body can repair networks of star-shaped support cells, known as astrocytes, reports infohub.kz.
Previously, it was thought that the death of astrocytes due to injury or autoimmune diseases, such as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, leads to irreversible tissue loss. However, the scientists found that special regenerative astrocytes gather at the edges of the damage. Instead of moving whole cells, they extend long processes through which they send newly formed nuclei into the affected area.
The authors also identified the genes and signaling pathways that are activated during the regeneration process. In the future, this discovery could help develop methods to stimulate brain recovery in patients after injuries and severe diseases.