Researchers Grow Functional Anal Sphincters in Mice Using Human Cells
Posted on August 18, 2011
Researchers have grown the very first functional anal sphincters in the lab. The sphincters were made from human muscle and nerve cells and implanted in mice. The sphincters developed a blood supply and maintained function after being implanted in the mice. The breakthrough means there is the possibility of one day growing sphincters for humans who need new ones.
"In essence, we have built a replacement sphincter that we hope can one day benefit human patients. This is the first bioengineered sphincter made with both muscle and nerve cells, making it 'pre-wired' for placement in the body," said senior author Khalil N. Bitar, Ph.D., a professor of regenerative medicine at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center's Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
There are numerous sphincters (ring-like muscles) in the human body, including those that control the release of urine and feces. Humans have two sphincters at the anus - one is internal and one is external. Fecal incontinence is the result of a weakened internal sphincter.
Bitar says people with weakened internal fecal sphincters often suffer without seeking help. She says, ""Many individuals find themselves withdrawing from their social lives and attempting to hide the problem from their families, friends, and even their doctors. Many people suffer without help."