Grown a replica of a human brain

Scientists from United States (US) have successfully grown a replica of a human brain in a laboratory dish. This medical breakthrough research was undertaken team of researchers from Ohio State University led by Professor Rene Anand. Key facts The brain called ‘Organoid’ was created from reprogrammed skin cells. It is about the size of a pencil eraser. In order to build the replica human brain, the research team had transformed adult skin cells by altering their genes into induced pluripotent stem (IPS) cells. This had resulted in artificial creation of stem cells which were then wheedled into developing different cell types and signalling circuitry of the brain including neurons and their signal-carrying projections, axons and dendrites along with blood circulation. This artificially grown brain also contains support and immune cells. Potential Application: This medical breakthrough can act as an essential tool in the testing of new drugs and research into brain disorders including Alzheimer.