Researchers at the University of Michigan in the United States recently made a fascinating discovery. Utilizing a human protein known as fibronectin, they were able to develop an animal-free environment to grow organoids in. This amazing revelation empowers them to more accurately replicate human brains within brain organoids.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div> This carries positive implications for both patients grappling with brain disorders and the lab animals typically involved in brain research.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> Science without the use laboratory animals isn’t always completely animal free. To sustain and cultivate cells, scientific studies often employ animal-derived materials like Matrigel<\/a>. But animal cells aren’t the optimal setting for human brain cells.<\/p>\n That\u2019s why the previously mentioned team of researchers opted to cultivate their brain organoid in an environment based on a human protein. And guess what? It worked! Stem cells adhered to the protein, enabling more meticulous study of neurodegenerative conditions like ALS or Alzheimer’s.<\/p>\n Furthermore, this method increases the potential for personalized treatments, as these organoids can be constructed with individual patient cells.<\/p>\n<\/div> The research team had been at it for a while. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, they were denied lab access for an extended period of time. Their organoids had been able to grow uninterrupted for months, leading to a surprising outcome upon their return. The brain fluid in the animal-free organoids resembled that of real humans more closely than previous measurements in organoids developed with Matrigel.<\/p>\n<\/div> At Proefdiervrij, we champion a science that respects animals while propelling scientific advancement. The use of animal-derived culture materials like Matrigel raises ethical concerns and entails animal suffering.<\/p>\n Anne Burgers, Science & Innovation Associate, stated, “As alternatives to these cultivated materials are developed and evidence mounts in favour of their efficacy over their animal-based counterparts, more researchers will opt for these alternatives. This not only expedites research but also spares thousands of mice.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n We endorse the development and implementation of these alternatives, and we preferably fund research projects<\/a> that forego the use of animal-derived culture materials.<\/p>\nPrecise brain research<\/h2>\n<\/div>
Silver linings<\/h2>\n<\/div>
Cruelty-free progress<\/h2>\n<\/div>
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