Spinal cord injuries have long posed one of the most stubborn challenges in medicine. Affecting more than 300,000 people in the United States alone, these injuries often lead to permanent paralysis because damaged nerve fibers fail to regenerate across the site of trauma. Traditional therapies focus largely on rehabilitation and symptom management rather than reversing the underlying injury. Now, a groundbreaking study from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities suggests that a combination of 3D printing, stem cells, and lab-grown tissues could change that narrative. Researchers have engineered tiny scaffolds that guide stem cells to form nerve fibers capable of bridging severed spinal cords. In rat models, this approach restored nerve connections and movement—offering a tantalizing glimpse into the future of paralysis treatment.

At the heart of this innovation are organoid scaffolds—microscopic 3D-printed structures designed to direct stem cell growth. These scaffolds contain a network of tiny channels that can be seeded with spinal neural progenitor cells (sNPCs). Originating from human adult stem cells, sNPCs have the potential to differentiate into the various types of neurons needed for spinal cord repair. The scaffold essentially provides a framework for these cells, ensuring they grow along the correct pathways to reconnect disrupted nerve circuits.

Guebum Han, a former postdoctoral researcher in mechanical engineering at the University of Minnesota and the study’s first author, explains, “We use the 3D printed channels of the scaffold to direct the growth of the stem cells, which ensures the new nerve fibers grow in the desired way. This method creates a relay system that, when placed in the spinal cord, bypasses the damaged area.”

To test their approach, the researchers transplanted the scaffolds into rats with completely severed spinal cords. Over time, the stem cells differentiated into mature neurons and extended their nerve fibers in both directions—toward the head (rostral) and toward the tail (caudal)—forming new connections with the host’s existing spinal circuitry.

The results were remarkable. Rats that received the organoid scaffolds showed significant functional recovery compared to controls, regaining movements that were previously impossible. The new neurons integrated seamlessly into the host tissue, demonstrating that lab-grown spinal tissue could not only survive transplantation but also restore communication across previously severed areas.

Can Lab-Grown Organs Help Patients?

While the research is still in its early stages, the potential implications for human medicine are profound. Spinal cord injuries have been notoriously resistant to treatment because adult nerve cells rarely regrow once damaged. This study provides proof-of-concept that targeted, scaffold-guided stem cell growth can rebuild the neural network necessary for motor function.

Ann Parr, professor of neurosurgery at the University of Minnesota, emphasizes the significance: “Regenerative medicine has brought about a new era in spinal cord injury research. Our laboratory is excited to explore the future potential of our ‘mini spinal cords’ for clinical translation.” The team hopes to refine the technique, scale up scaffold production, and move toward clinical trials that could one day benefit people living with paralysis.

Despite the promising results, several hurdles remain before this technology can be applied to humans. Scaling the tiny lab-grown spinal cords to the size necessary for human injuries will require sophisticated bioengineering solutions. Immune rejection and integration into a complex, pre-existing nervous system present additional challenges. Moreover, safety and efficacy will need to be rigorously tested in larger animal models before human trials can proceed.

The ethical considerations of stem cell use and genetic manipulation also require careful navigation. While adult stem cells used in this study bypass some of the ethical debates associated with embryonic stem cells, clinical applications must still adhere to stringent regulatory standards.

The merging of 3D printing, stem cell science, and lab-grown tissue engineering represents a paradigm shift in regenerative medicine. The concept of “mini spinal cords” could open the door to therapies not only for spinal cord injuries but potentially for other neurodegenerative diseases that involve nerve degeneration, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or multiple sclerosis.

Moreover, these technologies exemplify the broader trend of personalized medicine. By tailoring organoid scaffolds to individual patients, it may become possible to repair nervous system injuries with unprecedented precision. This could drastically improve outcomes, reduce rehabilitation times, and enhance quality of life for patients who currently have few options.

The University of Minnesota study is an early but significant step toward reversing paralysis. By combining 3D-printed scaffolds, stem cell biology, and lab-grown spinal tissue, researchers have demonstrated that damaged neural pathways can be rebuilt and functional recovery is achievable—at least in animal models.

While human applications are still a way off, the research provides a blueprint for the future of spinal cord repair and regenerative neuroscience. For the millions affected by spinal cord injuries, these tiny lab-grown spinal cords could one day offer more than hope—they could offer a pathway to regained movement and independence.

Dave Coulier is battling tongue cancer, only months after sharing that he had overcome lymphoma. The “Full House” actor spoke about the diagnosis during an appearance on the “Today” show, describing the news as “a shock to the system.”

The 66-year-old clarified that this illness is “totally unrelated” to his earlier non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. “This is a new cancer. I said, ‘Are you kidding me?’” he recalled. Doctors told him it may have developed from an HPV infection that could have been present for decades, which later “activated and turned into a carcinoma.”

Despite the shocking news, Coulier said the cancer is “very treatable” and comes with a “90 percent curability rate.” He added that his care team plans to begin radiation right away and that his prognosis is strong.

Dave Coulier Cancer: Dave Coulier Reveals Tongue Cancer Diagnosis

Dave Coulier is navigating another health setback soon after beating stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Speaking on Today, the Full House star shared that he has been newly diagnosed with p16 squamous carcinoma, a form of head and neck cancer. He explained that the finding came after a routine visit and PET scan.

“Totally unrelated to the previous cancer that I had,” he said, as per PEOPLE. “So in October of this year, I went in for a PET scan, just a routine check-up, and something lit up on the scan. It turned out that I have p16 squamous carcinoma at the base of my tongue. So I asked the doctors, ‘Did this happen because of the lymphoma?’ And they said, ‘Totally unrelated.’”

What Does Tongue Cancer Look Like?

Tongue cancer can show up as a sore that refuses to heal, a red or white patch (known as erythroplakia or leukoplakia), a lump or area of thickened tissue, or a small growth on the tongue. These changes may come with bleeding that has no clear cause, numbness, pain while swallowing or talking, or a sensation of fullness in the throat. Anyone who notices these issues should speak to a doctor for proper evaluation, as explained by Mayo Clinic.

Tongue cancer develops when cells on the tongue begin growing out of control. Several forms of cancer can affect the tongue, but the most common is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

When the front part of the tongue is involved (the part you can see), it is called oral cancer or oral tongue cancer. When it forms on the back of the tongue, deeper in the throat, it is known as oropharyngeal cancer or base-of-tongue cancer. Mayo Clinic notes that this cancer is relatively rare, making up less than 1 per cent of new cases in the United States. Still, it is one of the more frequent head and neck cancers, occurring twice as often in men and most commonly in people aged 40 and above.

Early Symptoms Of Tongue Cancer

Early signs of tongue cancer may include long-lasting sores or ulcers, red or white patches, and a lump or thicker area on the tongue. Other symptoms can include persistent pain, trouble swallowing or speaking, and numbness or tingling inside the mouth.

Tongue Cancer Risk Factors

Researchers have identified several factors that raise the risk of tongue cancer. These are conditions or habits that can increase your likelihood of developing it. The strongest links are heavy smoking and high alcohol intake. The risk becomes much higher when both are present.

Ibuprofen is a commonly available over-the-counter painkiller that you can pick up from nearly any pharmacy or supermarket. Known for its effectiveness, it helps relieve various aches, pains, inflammation, and even symptoms linked to colds, flu, or coronavirus.

However, it’s important to remember that ibuprofen isn’t suitable for everyone. The NHS advises that people in eight key situations should avoid this anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication, and anyone unsure should check with a pharmacist or doctor.

Ibuprofen Warning: Who Should Avoid It?

The NHS advises the following people should avoid taking ibuprofen:

• Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen, aspirin, or another NSAID
• Those with a stomach ulcer or a history of ulcers
• People with asthma or allergies (such as hay fever)
• Individuals with chickenpox
• Anyone with heart, liver, or kidney problems
• People with blood clotting issues
• Anyone who has previously had a stroke
• Those who are pregnant or trying to conceive

People who have had allergic reactions to ibuprofen, aspirin, or similar NSAIDs like naproxen should avoid it entirely, as should expectant mothers. Those with kidney problems, asthma, or a history of stomach ulcers should always seek medical advice before using ibuprofen, including topical forms.

The NHS adds: “How you take your medicine and the dose you use depends on the type of ibuprofen and how much it contains. Always read the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for guidance if you’re unsure about how to take it or encounter any problems. If a doctor prescribes ibuprofen, follow their instructions carefully.”

Typically, adults can take one or two 200mg ibuprofen tablets or capsules up to three times a day, leaving at least six hours between doses. In some cases, a higher dose may be prescribed, but only under a doctor’s supervision.

Medicines That Require Extra Caution

If you’re taking certain medications, consult a doctor before using ibuprofen. These include:

• Anticoagulants (such as warfarin)
• Steroid medicines
• Antidepressants
• Blood pressure-lowering medicines

The NHS has also noted: “If you’re taking ibuprofen for short-term pain, like a toothache or period pain, you may only need it for a day or two. Long-term conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may require longer courses.”

Who Needs to Consult a Doctor Before Taking Paracetamol?

Paracetamol isn’t suitable for everyone either. The NHS advises that certain groups should get medical guidance before taking it:

• People on certain medications
• Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or another medicine
• Individuals with liver or kidney issues
• People who regularly drink more than the recommended 14 units of alcohol per week
• Those weighing less than 50kg (eight stone) may need a lower dose

Official NHS guidance, as reported by the Mirror, states: “Most people aged 16 and over can take paracetamol. It is also safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Paracetamol can take up to an hour to start working and its effects typically last about five hours.”

A weight-loss doctor has issued an urgent alert as people desperate to shed pounds turn to illegal “Godzilla” fat jabs circulating on social media—some of which have been traced back to counterfeit factories and unregulated online sellers. With the party season approaching, pressure grows to look slimmer for family photos, office events and festive gatherings.

Experts warn that this rush is pushing people toward fake versions of retatrutide, a powerful triple-hormone drug still in clinical trials and not approved anywhere in the world. Recent reports from the UK revealed that more than £250,000 worth of counterfeit weight-loss pens labelled as tirzepatide and retatrutide were seized from a covert Northampton factory.

Retatrutide Warning: Experts Flag Rise of Fake Weight-Loss Jabs

Authorities caution that social media has become a “wild west” for buyers chasing dramatic pre-Christmas results. Professor Franklin Joseph, founder of Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, explains that seasonal pressure combined with unrealistic expectations is driving some toward dangerous, unregulated products. “This is the time of year when people panic."

Professor Joseph said. “They want to show up on Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve looking slimmer, and viral posts convince them there’s a quick fix. But these so-called ‘Godzilla jabs’ being sold online are fake, untested and potentially dangerous.”

What Is A Godzilla Jab?

The term "Godzilla jabs" is a nickname for retatrutide, a potent experimental weight-loss drug still undergoing clinical trials. It is not approved for human use, and regulators have warned against purchasing counterfeit black-market versions.

Retatrutide: Why Are Experts Giving Warning?

Retatrutide, also referred to as the “Godzilla” or “Triple-G” jab due to early trials showing significant weight loss is still strictly experimental. Despite this, counterfeit versions are circulating through online stores, social media channels, Telegram groups and private accounts, often with no medical supervision, no quality control and no legal oversight.

Professor Joseph notes that the festive season makes the risk even greater. “December is a perfect storm,” he said. “People have one event after another, clothes feel tighter, and family members they haven’t seen all year are coming together. Then an influencer tells them they can lose a stone in a month. It’s an illusion—and scammers know exactly how to exploit it.”

Dangers of Fake Retatrutide

Fake jabs may contain:

• Incorrect doses
• No active ingredient at all
• Contaminated mixtures
• Completely different drugs, including insulin, which can trigger dangerous hypoglycaemia

Authorities have repeatedly stressed that buying unlicensed medicines online is not only illegal but can also carry severe health risks. “Most people think the worst that could happen is the jab won’t work,” Professor Joseph said. “But the real danger is what’s actually inside that pen.”

Scientists anticipate that the results from ongoing clinical trials will be available next year, after which they plan to seek formal medical approval. Meanwhile, organised crime groups are increasingly turning to selling illicit medicines online, sometimes as an alternative to traditional street drugs like cocaine. Purchasing these medications without a proper prescription or guidance from a qualified doctor greatly raises the risk of side effects and serious health complications.

Weight-loss injections are carefully tailored to each patient’s body size and medical condition. Taking an excessive or unmonitored dose can be extremely dangerous.