Within the next few years, it may be possible to regenerate human tissues thanks to the research carried out at UNSW Australia. Bones and tissue could be regenerated in the same way that salamanders are able to renew limbs. The leader of this study has been John Pimanda, a professor of haematology at NSW and he explained that the process had already proved to be a success in mice. It is expected that trials on humans will begin towards the end of 2017.
This is seen as a fantastic breakthrough as it is the first time that iMS cells have been able to rebuild a variety of types of tissue. The memories of the cells have been stopped, and they are acting like stem cells and working on different types of cells. AZA and -AB(PDGF-AB) were used as treatment and then just the -AB(PDGF-AB) which is a growth factor.
The problem with using embryonic stem cells is the fact that tumours can form. The new process has been able to override this and according to Dr. Ralph Mobbs Neurosurgeon at UNSWs Prince of Wales Clinical School and who is going to lead the trials, there is great potential when it comes to dealing with neck and back pain. There will also be a quicker recovery rate after surgery.
As 20% of spinal implants do not heal in the way it would be hoped, this system will speed up the process and encourage implants to fuse with the existing bone. It is a huge step forward.
