MIT Researchers Develop Direct Method to Convert Skin Cells into Neurons

The new technique bypasses the stem cell stage, offering potential for advancing treatments for spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

MIT scientists have created a method to convert skin cells directly into motor neurons, bypassing the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) stage.
The process uses three transcription factors and two proliferation genes, significantly increasing neuron yield compared to prior methods.
The team demonstrated successful engraftment of these neurons into mouse brains, where they integrated and showed functional activity.
The technique has been adapted for human cells, though with lower efficiency, and could accelerate neuron-based therapies for conditions like ALS and spinal cord injuries.
Researchers are now working to refine the method for human application and explore its potential for spinal cord implantation.