Stem Cells cultivated from Hair Follicles can transform into Neurons

Most of the opposition to stem cells stem from the assumption that human embroys are required for stem cell production. However recent research indicates other viable sources (like placenta) of stem cells. The following appears to me a very promising avenue.

research published online by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences provides new insight into the abilities of stem cells taken from hair follicles. The results indicate that these adult stem cells can develop into neurons.

The finding that the stem cells could form neurons and other cell types after transplantation in vivo as well as in a petri dish, the authors conclude, “raises possibilities of their therapeutic applications.” –Sarah Graham

Source: Science & Technology at Scientific American.com