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Boston (eCanadaNow) - UK scientists have managed to grow tissue which works the same way a heart valve does from stem cells. The prediction is that a full heart could be grown within the next ten years.
Heart surgeon Sir Magdi Yacoub as well as a team of scientists made the discovery and then stated that their intention is to eventually continue this research to the point where they will be able to grow an entire functional heart for heart transplants for people.
He stated that a timescale is hard to predict but it was hopeful that within ten years a heart would be created.
The scientists took stem cells from adults in their bone marrow and used collagen to hold the value tissue in shape. This allowed it to grow into the one-inch valves. Currently plastic heart valves are used on patients to replace faulty valves. This research though could change all of that.
The tissue is a great tool for medical purposes as the valve will be more functional than the plastic replacement since it will act more like a real heart valve working with blood flow and acting properly.
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