In a major medical milestone, scientists in Israel have successfully repaired a human spinal cord using tissue engineered entirely from the patient’s own cells. This is the first time such a procedure has been performed on a human, offering new hope for people living with paralysis.
The technique was developed at Tel Aviv University by Professor Tal Dvir. It involves reprogramming a patient’s cells into stem cells, which are then used to create 3D spinal cord tissue. This personalized tissue is implanted into the damaged area, where it integrates with the host’s body and begins to restore function.
Because the tissue is made from the patient’s own cells, the risk of immune rejection is significantly reduced. In animal trials, the method enabled paralyzed mice to regain the ability to walk. With the first human procedure now complete, researchers are preparing for broader clinical trials.
Professor Dvir called the achievement a major step forward in regenerative medicine. “Our goal is to develop personalized spinal cord implants to treat paralysis, and we’re closer than ever to making that a reality,” he said.
This development highlights the growing potential of personalized medicine where treatments are tailored to each patient’s unique biology, and represents a shift from managing paralysis to potentially reversing it.
The full study is published in Advanced Science and can be accessed here: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202105694.
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