The finding could ultimately lead to new clinical treatments to repair nerves damaged from accidents, strokes and a wide variety of degenerative nervous system diseases.

Doctors say they often have to surgically repair organs, blood vessels and nerves damaged by bullets.

The question is, why can't human beings repair nerves or spinal cords, or grow new ones?

Cells involved in smell might seem an odd means of repairing nerves that control movement, but Dr. Raisman said there was a compelling reason to choose them.

Stem cells from nerves, which can develop into new nerve fibers, are being tested in animals to see whether they can repair damaged optic nerves.

Treatments are also in clinical trials to repair and regenerate peripheral nerves.

Scientists report that for the first time they have repaired crushed nerves connecting the extremities to the spinal cord in mammals, in this case rats.

The ability to be able to repair damaged nerves is the greatest challenge and prize for many researchers as well as a huge step for the medical field.

This would allow doctors to repair nerves damaged in an extreme accident, like third degree burns.

A major goal of this research is to develop methods for repairing damaged nerves and restoring full use and strength to injured areas.