With a research grant from the A-TCP, Ronald Hart, PhD at Rutgers University in New Jersey will create induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using blood samples taken from kids with A-T. Disease-specific iPSCs are often called “disease in a dish” models, because they allow scientists to study a disease using cells in culture, outside of a human or animal body.
Especially exciting, with the right stimulation, it may be possible to turn the iPSCs into brain cells, providing a way for neuroscientists to learn more about how A-T affects the brain. In addition, iPSCs can be used to screen chemical compounds for potential new drugs.
Oops! We could not locate your form.