By illuminating the path taken by human neural stem cells as they were transplanted into the brains of rats and mice, medical school researchers have found the cells successfully navigate toward areas damaged by stroke.The research group placed miniscule particles of iron inside stem cells to act as cellular beacons detected by magnetic resonance imaging. With the ability to monitor where the human stem cells go in real time, researchers will have an easier time learning the best way of using the cells to treat human neural disorders, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease or radiation damage.
