Stanford Researchers Integrate Human Brain Cells into Genetically Modified Mice

Why it matters locally: The research conducted at Stanford University could have significant implications for California's leading biotechnology and medical research sectors, potentially attracting further investment and talent to the state.

STANFORD, Calif. — Researchers at Stanford University have modified mice to host and interact with human brain cells. Scientists engineered the mice to accept and function with human neural tissue, according to their report. The project involved altering the genetic makeup of the mice. These modifications enabled the animals to successfully incorporate and utilize human brain cells within their own neurological systems. The team at Stanford University conducted the research. Their work focused on understanding how human brain cells might operate within a living, non-human organism.