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The mechanism of reproduction of stem cells has been discovered
Svetlana Maslova, Hi-tech+
Scientists have found a mechanism for controlling the division of somatic stem cells. Their function includes the continuous regeneration of all cells of the body, and if you learn how to manage it, you can "turn off" the reproduction of cancer cells or enhance the growth of healthy ones to grow new tissue.
American scientists have proved for the first time that the proliferation of somatic stem cells is directly controlled by the autonomic nervous system (VNS). Previously, scientists assumed that VNS has only an indirect effect on the reproduction of stem cells, but the study of intestinal cells indicates a direct relationship, according to the website of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Illinois scientists find stem cell proliferation is controlled directly by nervous system).
The autonomic nervous system controls the work of all internal organs. Its neurons secrete neurotransmitters, which have an effect on target cells.
In experiments with mouse intestinal cells, it has been shown that stem cells possess receptors for the neurotransmitters of ANS. In addition, neurotransmitters changed the behavior of the cells themselves, which proves a direct route of exposure.
To demonstrate the variability of stem cell behavior as a result of stimulation of the ANS, a team of scientists grew intestinal epithelial cells in the laboratory and exposed them to high levels of two neurotransmitters – norepinephrine and acetylcholine. As a result, modeling the activity of VNS subtypes reduced the proliferation of somatic stem cells.
"That is, in order to change the regeneration potential of an organ, it is not necessary to stimulate or suppress the activity of its neurons. It is enough to find out which neurotransmitters control the proliferation of stem cells, and then influence them with targeted drug delivery," explains the significance of the discovery researcher Megan Dailey.
The study examined only intestinal epithelial cells, however, according to scientists, the autonomic nervous system directly controls the formation of new stem cells in other organs.
Given the properties of stem cells, scientists can use their potential to treat many ailments. So, scientists were able to develop the most complex artificial connective tissue using stem cells and 3D printing technology. As a result, functional cartilage and tendons are created.
The article Davis et al. Evidence for a direct effect of the autonomous nervous system on intestinal epithelial stem cell proliferation is published in the journal Physiological Reports – VM.
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