3 minute read
Talents in Science
Jonas Frisén, Professor of Stem Cell Research, Karolinska Institute Stockholm, Sweden.
Professor Frisén, what are you currently working on?
Our ongoing project, funded by Wings for Life, focuses on stem cells. We are attempting to infuence endogenous stem cells in the spinal cord of mice – in such a way that new nerve cells are created. This should restore neuronal circuits and help restore lost bodily functions, such as walking.
How did you first get involved in research?
I got excited about research very early during medical school. One day, while working in the clinic, I analysed tissue from an injured spinal cord under the microscope. I observed a group of cells that had reacted to the injury. Evidently, they were forming new cells in response to the injury. This was a eureka moment for me, leading to the identification of neural stem cells in the spinal cord. I gave up my clinical work and concentrated exclusively on fundamental research from that point on.
In your opinion, what are the most significant developments in the field of spinal cord research in recent years?
I would argue the increasing understanding of axonal regeneration, as in the regrowth of nerve cells. I believe that knowing what inhibits and promotes this growth, as well as possible strategies for influencing these nerve cells, are the most important developments in the field of spinal cord research.
Which research milestones are you particularly proud of?
I am most excited about the identification and characterisation of the role neural stem cells play in the adult spinal cord. I am very proud of this milestone.
You are considered a visionary in your field. How do you expect spinal cord research to develop in the future?
I am optimistic that we will witness the development of more strategies to stimulate regeneration by means of cell replacement. This involves trying to replace dead cells in the spinal cord. I reckon there will be great leaps in this area.
Is there anything you cannot live without?
My children, most definitely! They are now 12, 15 and 17 years old. For me, spending time with them is pure bliss.
What dreams and goals do you pursue?
I dream of contributing to new therapies through my work, ultimately helping patients suffering from spinal cord injuries.
Jonas Frisén is a professor of stem cell research at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden. His ongoing project, funded by Wings for Life, focuses on the formation of nerve cells from so-called neural stem cells in the spinal cord. The aim is to stimulate the spinal cord’s capacity for self-repair. Read more at: wingsforlife.com/research
I dream of contributing to new therapies through my work.
