Self-assembling scaffold for spinal-cord repair

manouli · 11-15-2004, 08:43 PM

http://www.applesforhealth.com/Alter...e/safhnr5.html

Leo · 11-16-2004, 10:21 AM

"This helps raise the possibility of helping the spinal cord regenerate, a possibility we are literally studying at this moment," said researcher John Kessler, a neurologist at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill.

The new technique involves using tiny, artificial, 3-D scaffolds that can store or attract cells. The scaffolds give neurons or nerve cells a framework on which to rebuild. The materials typically are
biodegradable -- they dissolve as cells multiply to fill their place.

Northwestern materials scientist Sam Stupp and colleagues developed organic molecules that can assemble themselves in seconds into transparent scaffolds made of fibers only 5 to 8 nanometers -- billionths of a meter -- long. Using the nano-scaffolds, doctors can create templates for nerve regeneration simply by injecting ingredients into the body, instead of having to cut a person open to surgically implant a scaffold.

"All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given you."
Gandolf the Gray

11-15-2004, 08:43 PM	#1
manouli Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: florida Posts: 5,974	Self-assembling scaffold for spinal-cord repair http://www.applesforhealth.com/Alter...e/safhnr5.html

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11-16-2004, 10:21 AM	#2
Leo Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Yankton, South Dakota Posts: 3,606	"This helps raise the possibility of helping the spinal cord regenerate, a possibility we are literally studying at this moment," said researcher John Kessler, a neurologist at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. The new technique involves using tiny, artificial, 3-D scaffolds that can store or attract cells. The scaffolds give neurons or nerve cells a framework on which to rebuild. The materials typically are biodegradable -- they dissolve as cells multiply to fill their place. Northwestern materials scientist Sam Stupp and colleagues developed organic molecules that can assemble themselves in seconds into transparent scaffolds made of fibers only 5 to 8 nanometers -- billionths of a meter -- long. Using the nano-scaffolds, doctors can create templates for nerve regeneration simply by injecting ingredients into the body, instead of having to cut a person open to surgically implant a scaffold. "All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given you." Gandolf the Gray