Japanese scientists create human-like biologic immune systems

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Japanese scientists create human-like biologic immune systems

www.chinaview.cn 2006-03-21 10:59:44

TOKYO, March 21 (Xinhua) -- Japanese scientists have succeeded

in producing mice with immune systems close to those of humans, a

development expected to contribute to research in medical treatment

for a variety of diseases, local newspapers reported Tuesday.

In the experiments, the scientists first created genetically

modified mice whose original immune systems as mice did not function,

and then implanted human hematopoietic stem cells into the mice's

veins within 48 hours after they were born. The hematopoietic stem

cells settled in the bone marrow, and the main cells of the immune

system developed into those similar to humans', the Japan Times said.

The research team at Kyushu University's medical department said

on Monday the discovery will enable researchers to conduct

experiments in an environment of " living test tube " similar to the

human body.

Professor Mine Harada, who heads the team, said he and his

colleagues have succeeded in making the mice's immune systems

morethan 70 percent like humans' and they want to further enhance the

figure, as well as the longevity of the mice, for more complex

research. Enditem

Editor: Yang Li

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2006-03/21/content_4326226.htm