Parkinson’s disease is characterised by the loss of a certain
kind of brain cell. These brain cells make dopamine. This
neurotransmitter [a chemical released by brain cells to send
signals around the central nervous system] plays an important
role in the control of voluntary movement and behavioral
processes like addiction. Brain cells that produce this
messenger are known as dopamine neurons. Pictured is one grown
from mouse embryonic stem cells in the lab. A developmental gene
that helps the neurons mature is here tagged with green
fluorescent protein and an enzyme required to make dopamine is
stained blue. Making neurons from stem cells allows scientists
to study their function in detail. Regenerative medicine for
Parkinson’s will require a thorough understanding of how to make
healthy replacement cells. Written by Daniel Cossins BPoD stands
for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Clinical
Sciences Centre the website aims to engage everyone, young and
old, in the wonders of biomedicine. Image