Stem Cells Show Promise for Sick Lungs

Scientists have successfully implanted stem cells into the lungs of mice in breakthrough research that could one day be used to develop new treatments for cancer patients or those suffering from major respiratory ailments. It's the first time stem cell research has focused on lungs because of the complex nature of the tissue, the BBC reports.

In the study, scientists injected lung cells grown from stem cells into the tails of mice, and the cells migrated directly to the lungs within two days. "Embryonic stem cells really do have the capacity to recolonize damaged lungs," said one of the researchers. Scientists cautioned, however, that it could be years before the technique can be tested on humans. (More stem cells stories.)