Reprogrammed Cells Offer Hope for Brain Circuit Repair

Researchers at King's College London have reprogrammed astroglia, brain support cells, into neurons that mimic specific interneurons crucial for brain function. By modifying the Ascl1 protein, they enhanced its ability to convert astroglia into neuron-like cells, potentially offering new regenerative treatments for brain disorders like epilepsy. The engineered neurons exhibit high-frequency firing, essential for regulating brain activity, suggesting astroglia could be used to repair damaged brain circuits.