A simple treatment involving skin cell injections could be used to treat periodontal disease, as well as baldness and stretch marks, reports the Society for Chemistry & Industry. The treatment uses fibroblast cells extracted from the skin’s dermal layer. Fibroblasts control collagen and elastin levels, proteins that are found in skin, bones, and other connective tissue.

Researchers extracted fibroblast cells from the skin’s dermal layer, multiplied these cells in-vitro, and then injected them into the site to be treated. In phase I and II clinical trials, the method consistently succeeded in regenerating gum tissue. Anecdotal evidence suggests that bone is also being regenerated, and a phase III trial is planned to start soon in London. Using the fibroblast treatment, scientists have also succeeded in growing hair and getting rid of indented stretch marks.

Source: Adapted from a Society for Chemistry & Industry press release, May 2, 2005, available from www.chemind.org/.

- By Kristen Romanowski