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the adult human brain is composed of billions of neurons and glial cells connected to one another. what are some of the challenges of succesfully grafting donor neural cells to treat brain disease?

User Andrew Schultz
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Answer:

One challenge is finding cells that will survive and function in the recipient's brain. Another challenge is that the grafted cells must be able to integrate into the existing neural circuitry and establish appropriate connections. Additionally, the grafted cells must be able to withstand the immunological response of the host brain. Finally, the grafted cells must be able to function over the long-term in order to be clinically effective.

So how can this be solved? (Bonus answer!)

Donor cells can be grafted to treat brain diseases by replacing damaged or destroyed cells with healthy cells. This can be done with stem cells, which are cells that can develop into many different types of cells, or with specific types of cells that are needed to treat a particular disease.

What are neurons?

Neurons are cells in the nervous system that transmit information to other cells in the body. There are three types of neurons: sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons.

  • Sensory neurons are neurons that detect stimuli from the environment and send signals to the brain.
  • Motor neurons are neurons that send signals from the brain to the muscles, causing them to contract.
  • Interneurons are neurons that transmit signals between other neurons.

What are Glial cells?

Glial cells are cells in the nervous system that provide support and protection for neurons. There are three types of glial cells: astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia.

  • Astrocytes are the most numerous type of glial cell and are responsible for providing nutrients and support to neurons.
  • Oligodendrocytes are cells that wrap aroundaxons and provide myelin, a fatty substance that insulates axons and helps them to conduct electrical signals.
  • Microglia are cells that protect the brain and spinal cord from infection and damage.

User KapsiR
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