Breakthrough in neurobiology: new type of brain cells discovered

On March 1, 2025, a group of scientists made a sensational discovery in neurobiology: a new type of white matter astrocytes - proliferative astrocytes - was identified. These cells have a unique ability to multiply, create new cells, and migrate from the brain's white matter to gray matter.

What does this mean for science and medicine?

Until now, it was believed that astrocytes, which are key support cells in the nervous system, had limited division capability. However, the new discovery disproves this postulate and gives scientists new tools for studying brain regeneration.

Proliferative astrocytes can play a crucial role in treating various brain injuries, including:

• Injuries and strokes – the cells' ability to divide and migrate can help restore damaged neural circuits.

• Neurodegenerative diseases – potential application in the treatment of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis.

• Development of genetic and cellular technologies – studying these cells will help create new tissue regeneration methods.

How was the discovery made?

The research was conducted by a group of scientists from leading neurobiological laboratories worldwide. Using advanced molecular biology and neuroimaging methods, specialists were able to observe the activity of new astrocytes and confirm their ability to divide.

What's next?

Scientists plan to continue studying these cells to understand their working mechanisms and find ways to activate them in the damaged brain. This discovery could be an important step toward creating new treatments for nervous system diseases, from strokes to neurodegeneration.

Thus, the discovered type of brain cells opens a new chapter in medical science and may lead to revolutionary treatments for neurological diseases.