April 26, 2016
Neurons. Credit: Investigación y Desarrollo
Working
with animal models, Mexican researchers have crossed the electroencephalic
barrier, introduced a nanogel to brain tissue and achieved the growth of
neurons within the gel, demonstrating a technique to promote regeneration of
brain tissue.
After
six years of research with materials
engineering and bioengineering, the first nanogel for neuron
growthhas reached the experimental stage and could be applied as a treatment
for neurodegenerative
diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, in addition to its use
during nuclear magnetic
resonance or CAT scans to improve the visibility of the brain.
Dr.
Victor Castaño, from the Centre of Applied Physics and Advanced Technology
(CFATA) of the National University of Mexico (UNAM) explained that the nanogel
is a biocompatible material that can be injected into the brain and through
external excitation promotes the spontaneous growth of neurons.
"We
wanted to improve and advance the generation of biomaterials for regenerating brain tissue. During the
experiments, we crossed the electroencephalic barrier that keeps the brain
isolated from the body; by crossing it, we could introduce the nanogel, which
then acted without harming the body. Within the gel, neurons began to grow;
this wouldn't have been possible in any other way.
"Also,
with the help of lase tweezers, we took two light phases and stimulated the
neuron by pulling it and putting it to exercise. This gave us favorable results
in increased neuronal tissue," explained Dr. Castaño, member of the
Commission of Biomedical Specialty, from the Engineering Academy of Mexico
(AIM).
The
Ministry of Health reports that in Mexico more than 500 thousand people suffer
from Parkinson's and 850 thousand from Alzheimer's, both neurodegenerative
diseases that damage brain nerves.
http://health.einnews.com/article/323300913/LO7yKq8yb3TjBizx
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