Human organoids reveal how to reverse “irreversible” nerve damage
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed miniature brain and spinal cord systems that can mimic nerve signal transmission. They found that the ability of human neurons to regrow after damage declines during development, but this ability can potentially be restored. A hormone drug was identified that significantly boosts nerve fiber regrowth in damaged neurons.
- ▪The study revealed that nerve damage previously thought to be permanent may be reversible under certain conditions.
- ▪The researchers created lab-grown organoids that allowed them to observe axon growth and neural circuit functionality.
- ▪Blocking specific gene regulators in mature neurons restored their ability to grow axons.
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Science News from research organizations Human organoids reveal how to reverse “irreversible” nerve damage Date: May 28, 2026 Source: University of Cambridge Summary: Cambridge researchers created miniature brain-and-spinal-cord systems in the lab that can send signals and even trigger tiny muscle contractions. They discovered that human neurons gradually lose their ability to regrow after damage during development — but that ability can potentially be switched back on. The team identified a gene network controlling this process and found that an existing hormone drug dramatically boosted nerve fiber regrowth. Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY Scientists may have found a way to “switch back on” the human nervous system’s lost ability to repair itself.
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