Scientists in Singapore have made
a big leap on research on the ‘mini-brain’. These advanced mini versions of the
human midbrain will help researchers develop treatments and conduct other
studies into Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and ageing-related brain diseases. These mini midbrain versions are
three-dimensional miniature tissues that are grown in the laboratory and they
have certain properties of specific parts of the human brains. This is the
first time that the black pigment neuromelanin has been detected in an organoid
model. The study also revealed functionally active dopaminergic neurons. The
human midbrain, which is the information superhighway, controls auditory, eye
movements, vision and body movements. It contains special dopaminergic neurons
that produce dopamine – which carries out significant roles in executive
functions, motor control, motivation, reinforcement, and reward.
Also causing PD is the dramatic
reduction in neuromelanin production, leading to the degenerative condition of
patients, which includes tremors and impaired motor skills. This creation is a
key breakthrough for studies in PD, which affects an estimated seven to 10
million people worldwide. Furthermore, there are people who are affected by
other causes of parkinsonism. Researchers now have access to the material that
is affected in the disease itself, and different types of studies can be
conducted in the laboratory instead of through simulations or on animals. Using
stem cells, scientists have grown pieces of tissue, known as brain organoids,
measuring about 2 to 3 mm long. These organoids contain the necessary hallmarks
of the human midbrain, which are dopaminergic neurons and neuromelanin.
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