Image of motor neuron. (Credit: Courtesy Dimos, Rodolfa et al)
As I was doing my daily medical reading, I came across an article showcasing The Top 10 Medical Breakthrougs of 2008. The #1 spot went to the field of stem cell technology. Harvard and Columbia scientists have for the first time used a new technique to transform an ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig's disease) patient's skin cells into motor neurons.
Using the motor neurons created from ALS patients, scientists can now study the progress of the disease as the affected cells develop, degenerate and die in a dish — something researchers could never do before for such slow-moving conditions. Once scientists understand the development of ALS, they may be able to create more effective treatments, or perhaps even a cure.
For more info, check out this article: Stem Cell Technology: First Neurons Created From ALS Patient's Skin Cells
I love it when our scientist make medical breakthroughs. It shows me that my money, as a taxpayer, is going to good use. Do you agree?
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