Agencies
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Agencies | Published : October 19, 2014 3:11 PM IST
Using a simple technique known as multiple combinations of cell populations, researchers have grown tissue of the oesophagus (food pipe). The find could one day be applied to help children who have been born with missing portions of the organ, which carries food, liquids and saliva from the mouth to the stomach. (Read: Stem cell therapy what you ought to know)
The tissue-engineered oesophagus formed on a relatively simple biodegradable scaffold after the researchers transplanted mouse and human organ-specific stem/progenitor cells into a murine model. 'This means that successful tissue engineering of the oesophagus is simpler than we previously thought,' said principal investigator Tracy Grikscheit from the Saban Research Institute in the US. Progenitor cells have the ability to differentiate into specific types of cell and can migrate to the tissue where they are needed. (Read: Scientists design new kind of stem cells for building organs)
The tissue-engineering technique discovered by the researchers required only a simple polymer to deliver the cells and multiple cellular groupings show the ability to generate a replacement organ with all cell layers and functions. 'We found that multiple combinations of cell populations allowed subsequent formation of engineered tissue,' Grikscheit added. (Read: Stem cell therapy for various diseases all your queries answered)
'We have demonstrated that a simple and versatile, biodegradable polymer is sufficient for the growth of tissue-engineered oesophagus from human cells, Grikscheit said. The process might also be used in patients who have had oesophageal cancer or otherwise damaged tissue, after having accidentally swallowed a caustic substance. The study appeared online in the journal Tissue Engineering Part A.
Source: IANS
Image Source: Getty Images
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter.
