Scientists turn skin cells into muscles

For the first time researchers from Duke University have turn the skin cells into a working muscle. This can be a breakthrough in the treatment of diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. However, the experts note that further research is required, UPI.com reports.

Skin cells were reprogrammed in the laboratory. They have become pluripotent stem cells, capable of turning into cells of any type. After that the cells were cultured. They were exposed to Pax7 molecule that indicates about the transformation of skin cells into muscles.

Then the cells turned into functioning skeletal muscles. They were not as strong as the cells of normal muscle tissue. However, after four weeks, the grown cells can contract and respond to external stimuli. Then the cells were implanted in mice. Apparently, the cells were placed into the natural muscle tissue of the rodents.

Source: UPI.com.