http://www.voanews.com/english/2008-10-09-voa7.cfm
This month's issue of the science journal Nature featured research from German scientists who have found a source for the controversial stem cells other than from fetuses or by altering human cells with viruses. Stem cells are called 'pleuripotent', meaning these cells will 'magically' convert to the type of cell surrounding them. Therefore, implanting stem cells in the blood will convert them to blood cells, etc.
The researchers found the testicles to be a source of stem cells normally used in the creation of sperm. Oddly enough, the cells were only able to convert to bone, nerve and muscle tissue, but not cardiac or other organs.
This is where it gets interesting, to me.
The ancient masters of Chinese medicine and Taoism knew the testicles to be the seat of Jing - the essence (semen is the material manifestation of Jing). Without strong Jing, an individual will be weaker (muscle), have brittle bones, or have neurological deficits (brain/nervous system - aka "Sea of Marrow"). The kidneys are linked to the testis thru the creation and storage of Jing - the kidneys draw the Jing of the testis to manufacture Qi, Blood and Shen. Furthermore, the kidneys 'control' the bones, ears, and are responsible for the general health of the other organ systems. Traditionally, if you want to increase the Jing, herbs that tonify the yin and yang of the kidneys are used.
So, western science found a link to the past after all... and they don't even know it.
Better go take my tonic...
peace
herb ox