Cambridge organoids reveal a path to reverse 'irreversible' nerve damage
Cambridge University MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology researchers announced they have restored the regrowth capacity of adult nerve cells in miniature brain-and-spinal-cord systems produced from human stem cells in the lab. The published study opens a potential treatment pathway for nerve damage previously considered irreversible. Published in Cellular Biology, the study offers treatment potential for spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders.
The study's lead author, Cambridge University medical research professor Dr. Madeline Lancaster, said in a press statement, 'Organoids, that is, miniature organ-like structures grown in the lab, allowed us to follow the developmental trajectory of the human nervous system. We discovered why adult nerve cells lose their regrowth ability and then restored that ability using an existing hormone drug.'
According to the study, the Cambridge team discovered that as organoids developed from stem cells matured into adult states, a gene network known as BCL11A switched off the regrowth programme of nerve cells. The same team activated the regrowth programme by using a thyroid hormone receptor blocker that turns off this gene network. The study showed that nerve cells grew to four times their length within 12 weeks in mouse-like 'organ-on-chip' models.
The Cambridge team's discovery of how the BCL11A gene operates was built on the team's earlier 2025 finding published in Nature. At that time, the team analysed embryonic nerve cells' regrowth capabilities that adults do not have. They have now revealed the mechanism for adults to regain this ability.
Brain Research UK science director Sara Imarisio told Science Daily, 'This study is a turning point in conditions such as spinal cord injuries, stroke and multiple sclerosis. Previous treatments have all focused on preventing or slowing damage, while this approach promises to reverse it.' Imarisio added that clinical trials could begin in the 2027-2028 period.
The hormone drug used in the study is described as a subclass of levothyroxine, which has been used to treat hypothyroidism since the 1960s. Because this existing drug class is approved by the FDA, regulators may be relatively quick to re-approve it for use in adult neurological diseases. The Cambridge team is forming a joint clinical trial protocol with Johns Hopkins University in the U.S.
An MRC spokesperson said the study has received 14 million pounds in funding, with an additional 8 million pounds potentially provided over the next three years through 2028. For the clinical trial phase transition, the Wellcome Trust, the Gates Foundation and the European Research Council are also planning to provide additional funding.
Nature's neuroscience editor Dr. Ferris Jabr said, 'The study's methodology shows that human organoids are superior to traditional animal models. Because rat and mouse nervous systems evolved differently from humans, human organoids offer the most sensitive case model before clinical trials.'
American Academy of Neurology President Dr. Carlayne Jackson said, 'Spinal cord injuries generate 17,000 new cases annually in the United States. About 60 percent of these cases severely limit quality of life into adulthood. The Cambridge findings offer hope for treating injuries previously considered irreversible.' Jackson added that the Academy plans to have the Cambridge team present its results at its 2027 annual congress.
This article is a scientific research news report; it should not be read as medical advice on nervous system injuries, multiple sclerosis or personal medical decision making. For treatment options, please consult a licensed neurologist or medical specialist.