Natural Bone Marrow Regeneration?

Scientists from the University of Montreal have developed a method to mass produce stem cells from a small number of blood stem cells from a patient’s bone marrow. This would allow for far easier transplants since the inserted cells could be grown, eliminating the difficult search for compatible donors. According to the article, nearly 4,000 individuals in North America wait for such donors without success. The feat was accomplished by identifying 10 proteins found in bone marrow stem cells which force the cells to multiply in the lab setting. The scientists hope that even one of these proteins will also allow the regeneration of bone marrow directly in humans, completely eliminating the need for even a transplant.

In addition to simply marrow replenishment, the technique also has other implications for organ recipients. Normally, organ transplants are complicated by the possibility of harmful reactions towards the transplanted organs, and must therefore take medication to suppress the effects. Furthermore, since the transplanted organs are generally permanent, the negative effects could remain for the rest of their lives. However, mouse studies exist that suggest bone marrow transplants could prevent rejection against organs. The immune system cells created by the bone marrow are responsible for these reactions. Thus, marrow transplants could eventually result in acceptance of the organ as one of the body’s own.

I feel that this research is a remarkable development. This technique seems as if it is both easy and inexpensive, two qualities which I think are necessary for it to become a widespread treatment. As such, I am eager to read more about its success on direct marrow regeneration. My only question is about the time frame mentioned. Why should it take a few years to be implemented as mentioned in the article? If the cells are indeed from the person’s own culture, what remains to be so extensively tested?

Source:
http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2009/04/16/world_premiere_in_stem_cell_research_in_montreal.html