Skin Cells 'Turned Into Neurons' by US Scientists

A Californian team say they have managed to convert human skin cells directly into functioning brain cells. 

The scientists manipulated the process by which DNA is transcribed within foetal skin cells to create cells which behaved like neurons.

The technique had previously been demonstrated in mice, says the report in Nature.

It could be used for neurological research, and might conceivably be used to create brain cells for transplant.

How Your Mind Can be Read

Scientists have discovered a way to watch words form in the human brain in a breakthrough that could one day allow those with severe disabilities to 'speak'.

The researchers have found a way to peer into the deepest recesses of the brain in order to watch words forming. Using electrodes they found the area of the brain that is involved in creating the 40 or so sounds that form the English language.

They then discovered that each of these sounds has its own signal which they believe could eventually allow a computer programme to read what people want to say by the power of their thoughts.