Scientists in stem cells breakthrough

SCIENTISTS at the University of Edinburgh have managed to reprogramme stem cells from a key organ in the immune system which could lead to advances in tissue regeneration.

Researchers, using rat models, grew stem cells from the thymus - an organ important for immune systems - using conditions for growing hair follicle skin stem cells.

Their research has shown it is possible to convert one stem type to another without the need for genetic modification.

When the cells were transplanted into developing skin, they were able to maintain skin and hair for more than a year instead of the three weeks that naturally-produced hair follicle stem cells can manage.

Professor Yann Barrandon said: "In theory this operation could be recreated with other organs as well."