Edinburgh scientists grow human brain cells to study mental illness

BBC News - Edinburgh scientists grow human brain cells to study mental illness:


Scientists are growing brain cells from people in families with a history of mental illness to test new treatments.

In the past, researchers have had to rely on brain tissue from deceased donors to study conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Using living cells from the skin or hair of people who have faulty genes will allow researchers to create more accurate tests.

It also means they can reduce the reliance on animal testing.

The Edinburgh University project has received a £1m funding boost from the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research.

It aims to develop cell-based systems derived from the skin or hair of affected patients.