Researchers Find a Type of Stem Cell May Have the Ability to Repair the Brain

February 20, 2004 | Source: New York Times

Neural stem cells, whose function has been a mystery, may have the potential to repair brain damage or disease, scientists reported in Nature, Feb. 19.

The cells form ribbons of astrocytes, which produce different types of brain cells, including neurons. Found in the lining of two fluid-filled pockets near the front of the head, they may turn out to serve no purpose or may migrate to other parts of the brain to carry out repairs.