Scientists discover new cells that have the ability to cure chronic diseases

Almost all mammalian body tissues contain macrophages, which are white blood cells that play an important role in the immune system. These cells are responsible for destroying bacteria, viruses and damaged body cells.

For many years, scientists have hypothesized that stem cells in human blood have the ability to produce new macrophages in the body. These new macrophages work to renew old macrophages that have been damaged.

However, recent research has discovered a new type of cell called “EndoMac progenitor” that has the ability to heal itself. These cells were first discovered in the aorta or blood vessels of mammalian mice. So, is this new cell type also found in humans?

Check out the explanation below.

Discover new cell types

Scientists spent nine years searching for a new type of cell they called “EndoMac progenitors.” This discovery also confirms a hypothesis that has been proposed for almost a century by scientists.

According to Sanura Liyanage, a scientist from the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), these cells are activated when an injury occurs or when blood flow is interrupted. These cells will then automatically develop to help the body’s healing process.

“These cells have an important job, which is to help grow blood vessels when the body needs them,” said Liyanage, quoted from Science Alert.

Laboratory Mice and Infectious Disease

As fellow mammals, mice and humans have similar organ systems. This led scientists to further research on mice to understand the immune systems and organs of mammals.

Liyanage and his colleagues succeeded in finding a new type of cell in the aorta or blood vessels of adult mice. Scientists tested the EndoMac progenitor on several mice with diabetes, by injecting them.

It was proven that this new cell type was able to improve wound healing in mice suffering from diabetes.

Liyanage explained that, in theory, this research could be applied to patients with chronic diseases. Currently, researchers are continuing research to investigate whether similar cells also exist in humans, as reported in the journal Nature Communications in 2024.

“We’re excited to continue exploring the potential of these cells. It’s still in the early stages, but the impact could be huge,” said Liyanage.

(gas/gas)