Reversing Paralysis Using Nose Cells

Jasper, who regained full use of his legs

Researchers at the University of Cambridge were able to reverse paralysis in a dog, by using cells from it's nose.

In their study they took thirty-four dogs that had suffered spinal injuries, which had caused paralysis in their hind legs.

Twenty-three of the dogs were given an injection containing cells from their noses, while the other eleven were given a neutral fluid, as a control group.

Most of the dogs given the special injection recovered their ability to walk, on a treadmill, with a harness.

One dog, Jasper, regained full control of his legs and no longer even requires the harness.

Nose cells were taken as olfactory nerves are the only ones which continue to grow, at any age.

Olfactory ensheathing cells are found in the back of the nasal cavity and are what allow for the sense of smell.

The OECs constantly replace the cells, allowing for the sense of smell to always continue.

Scientists chose them due to their regenerative nature.

In the case of the dogs, the OECs were able to regrow the nerve endings along the dog's spines, allowing for paralysis reversal.

The researchers are hopeful that this is a step towards allowing for the reversal of human paralysis.