Research recently published in the journal Cell details the successful isolation of human skeletal stem cells from fat cells removed via liposuction. They did this by taking stromal cells from the liposuctioned fat and then growing them in the presence of a bone growth protein. Although a working course of treatment is still a long ways away, this research has immensely important implications for the treatment of patients with degenerative bone diseases, such as the 44 million Americans with osteoporosis.
Key Takeaways:
- Better treatment for osteoporosis, fractures and joint damage is on the horizon as scientists have isolated human stem cells that grow into bone.
- The goal of isolating stem cells from fetal and adult bones has been going on for decades.
- The breakthrough was first made in a species of mice before it was transmitted to human cells.
“It’s a development that could one day lead to much better treatments for osteoporosis, joint damage, and bone fractures.”
Read more: https://bigthink.com/surprising-science/skeletal-stem-cells-discovered
