Japan is the first country in the world to approve treatments based on cell reprogramming for serious diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and heart failure, according to El Periódico.
The method is based on research by Japanese scientist Shinya Yamanaka, who received the Nobel Prize in 2012 for demonstrating that adult cells can be altered and given new properties.
Researchers in Spain are now continuing work using the same technology.
Could rejuvenate cells
According to physician Pedro Guillén, researchers are investigating a method that could make cells younger without completely transforming them.
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The goal is to help damaged tissue function properly again.
Previous animal studies have shown promising results. A 2021 study published in Nature Communications demonstrated improvements in muscle tissue in older laboratory animals.
Researchers believe the technology could later also be used to treat other diseases linked to ageing.
Human trials planned
The Spanish research team expects to begin human trials before the end of the year. The treatment will be tested on patients with knee osteoarthritis.
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If the trials are successful, Spain could become the first country to use the technology to treat early-stage osteoarthritis.
According to Pedro Guillén, the treatment could potentially become part of standard medical care within five years.
Sources: El Periódico and Nature Communications.
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