The researchers hope the new study will provide insight into the development and treatment of brain diseases.
The brain is a complex mechanism that has never ceased to amaze scientists for years. Hundreds of different studies are conducted every year to understand how our brains work and how and why brain diseases develop. In a new study, scientists have learned how to grow “empty” brain cells in the laboratory and implant them in the brains of mice. Science notice.
This isn’t the first time a team of scientists led by Stanford University neuroscientist Sergiu Pasca has tried to implant human brain tissue into the brains of mice. In 2008, his team cultivated brain cells from stem cells in the laboratory. To do this, the scientists used adult stem cells, then induced them to return to their original state of “empty” stem cells, when they had not yet acquired “specialization” – heart, kidney or brain cells. Next, from these cells, scientists grew clusters of brain tissue called organelles in the laboratory.
On fire. The technology seemed his Telegram channel. Sign up to not miss the latest and exciting news from the world of science!
During the first experiment, the scientists implanted organoids in adult mice. But the study failed because the cells didn’t take root. Later, the scientists decided to repeat the study, but with rat pups.
As a result, Pashka and colleagues transplanted human brain tissue into the brains of newborn rats, whose brains have not yet developed and matured. Organelles were implanted in the somatosensory cortex, an area responsible for processing and receiving sensory information.
The transplant operation was performed on rat pups of a few days old. Brain tissue took root and scientists continued to observe the animals until they grew up. In total, they were left to grow for 140 days: the rats reach sexual maturity between 6 and 12 weeks. After that, scientists began studying mice.
Over the course of the study, scientists genetically engineered organoids to respond to simulated blue light by firing neurons. This neuronal stimulation was carried out in an experiment in which mice were trained to lick their noses to get water. Later, the scientists found that when the mice were illuminated with blue light, they automatically licked their lips.
Scientists were pleasantly surprised by the results: it was found that the organoid not only took root and functioned as part of the mouse’s brain, but also controlled behavior aimed at seeking rewards.
According to the study authors, the data they obtained in the future may help scientists learn more about how our brains work, how brain diseases develop, and thus how to treat or prevent brain damage.
Previously Focus wrote it scientists have discovered the hidden capabilities of our brains – it turns out that it can “learn” even without the owner’s knowledge.
