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Researchers reverse dog paralysis

There’s promising news for dogs with spinal cord injuries.

By Vetstreet Nov 20, 2012 3:41PM

In a clinical trial at the U.K.’s Cambridge University, researchers were able to reverse paralysis in several dogs by removing cells from the lining of their noses, growing them in a laboratory for several weeks, then transplanting them into the damaged part of the spinal cord. 

Photo: BBC News // Jasper, a 10-year-old dog, regained the use of his hind legs after a nose cell transplant.The transplanted cells regenerated nerve fibers across the damaged region, enabling the dogs to regain the use of their hind legs and coordinate movement with their front legs, according to the study, which was published in the journal Brain.

May Hay, whose 10-year-old dachshund, Jasper, was part of the trial, had to wheel her pet around because his “back legs were useless. Now he whizzes around the house and garden and is able to keep up with the other dogs. It's wonderful." — Watch it at BBC News

Photo: BBC News // Jasper, a 10-year-old dog, regained the use of his hind legs after a nose cell transplant.

Bing: See adorable pictures of dachshunds.

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59Comments
Nov 21, 2012 4:00PM
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I wonder when this will translate to humans.  This could be awesome for people with spinal cord injuries!  Wow!!!!
Nov 21, 2012 4:05PM
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My doctor said they wouldn't be able to repair nerve cells in my lifetime. I have a paralyzed right leg and wonder about the atrophy that has occurred. If only this could take place on humans. It's a  start.
Nov 21, 2012 4:07PM
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Now they need to get this to work for humans.  Imagine paralysis not being a life long condition anymore.

Too bad stem cell research is still such a controversial topic.

Nov 21, 2012 4:55PM
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 I think the controversial part comes in if their using stem cells from fetuses.  I don't understand why it would be controversial if they're using the cells of the patient.  It doesn't make sense to me.

Nov 21, 2012 4:24PM
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wow this would be great for humans especially those with Spina Bifida. I hope they are able to continue this study, if it's not the same dog i saw an article like this before.
Nov 21, 2012 4:40PM
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its a brave new world. its awe-inspiring and frightening at the same time. what will the future hold? i sincerely hope this will benefit people who are injured as it has animals. i wish it had been in time to help christopher reeve. he was so brave in his quest to walk again. i think of our soldiers and what it could mean for them. its miraculous.
Nov 21, 2012 4:29PM
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It would be nice if they would tell us why they chose nose cells.
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