Nerve Cells However Can’t Be Repaired Or Replaced

One of the biggest red flags of DNA damage is found in the brain. Mature neurons – nerve cells – are highly specialized and, unlike other cells, don't possess centrioles, the mechanism essential for cell division and replication. Because of this, our bodies can't simply repair DNA damage or get new undamaged neurons to replace them. It's one reason why scientists are particularly interested in neural stem cell therapies for brain injury and cognitive function.