New stem cell research on neurodegenerative diseases
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) – On Wednesday, The National Stem Cell Foundation announced a $3.1 million grant from NASA to continue researching neurodegenerative diseases on the International Space Station.
According to NSCF, the award will allow additional ground research and another three missions to the ISS through 2027.
Senate President Robert Stivers, said Kentucky is matching 10% of the grant, or $300,000. He adds this shows Kentucky’s commitment to invest now, and in the future.
Dr. Paula Grisanti, with NSCF, said they are looking at diseases like Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis.
“In space, you can see these cells talking to each other in a way that’s not possible on earth,” said Dr. Grisanti.
She said they are able to look at these cells by using brain organoids, a 3-D replica of a brain made from cells of people with Parkinson’s or MS.
“And that is opening the door to new biomarker discovery, new cell and gene therapies for these diseases that don’t currently exist and it is mapping a place for Kentucky at the forefront of space-based innovation,” said Grisanti.
She adds their next flights will include organoids of those with Alzheimer’s disease.
Mackenzie Wallace, Director of Public Policy for the Alzheimer’s Association, said this level of innovation, especially at a time when Alzheimer’s and Dementia research is exploding is exciting.
She adds that while this research may not bring a cure for those who currently have the disease, it is still exciting.
“They’re thinking about their children, their grandchildren and their great-grandchildren and what that may mean for them,” said Wallace. “That we may actually be getting to a cure someday and that in and of itself I think gives people a lot of hope.”
Dr. Grisanti said the hope for all of this research is to eventually find a cure for all of these diseases.
