she stained the cells with antibodies for a host of other cell types. The presence of unique proteins in a given cell confirms that it is actively producing that protein, not just that its genetic code is capable of doing so, said Hall. In this case, the oligodendrocytes were producing the needed protein or enzyme.

"The therapeutic goal is to rapidly produce oligodendrocytes in the lab, and then infuse them into patients soon after transplant," said Hall. "Delivering cells directly to the brain could hasten engraftment of the cells and could ultimately result in repairing of neurologic tissue."

Hall said the potential also exists for repairing spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis, which -- like the metabolic "leukodystrophies" -- result from deterioration of the myelin sheath that coats nerve cells.

'"/>

Contact: Becky Levine
levin005@mc.duke.edu
919-684-4148
Duke University Medical Center
16-Feb-2004

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