Scientists turn mouse immune cells into neurons post stroke

What's the news: Scientists have transformed a type of brain immune cell into neurons in mice that had suffered stroke.

Why should we believe it: This news is based on a new study published earlier this month by scientists in Japan.

The scientists first induced stroke in mice by blocking a main artery to the brain. They then used gene therapy to turn microglia, an abundant type of brain immune cell, into neurons at the site of the brain injury. Results:

• Microglia developed into neurons and integrated into the injured area

• The treated mice recovered motor function much better than control mice

• Improvement was already visible within three weeks

Why this is a big deal: Neurons don't replicate easily, so a stroke that kills off neurons typically causes permanent damage. Microglia, on the other hand, do replicate. Moreover, they naturally migrate to the site of a stroke, making them the perfect candidate for becoming new neurons, via modern gene-editing wizardry.

So what's next: The scientists are looking to do two things. The first is to see whether this kind of treatment would be possible not only immediately after a stroke but also at a later, chronic phase.

The second goal is, of course, to see whether this treatment is safe and effective in humans as well. Stay tuned to Long Youthspan, because I'll update you on any news regarding this exciting research.