The experiment involved collecting small amounts of tissue from the subventricular area of the primate brain using ultrasonography. The neural precursor cells, or stem cells, then were isolated and expanded in vitro using mitogen, an agent that promotes cell division. At the same time, myelin was removed from the primate's spinal cord. The stem cells were then injected in the same spot to form new myelin to cover the nerve fibers. These results demonstrate that autologous transplantation of neural precursor cells in the adult non- human primate can remyelinate demyelinated axons, thus suggesting the potential utility of such an approach in demyelinating lesions in humans.
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Primate-Science Research Highlights are supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health, National Center for Research Resources. Copyright 2000, Wisconsin Regional Primate Research Center. No portion of this highlight may be copied or redistributed without the consent of the editor.