The Korea Food and Drug Administration says that for the first time it will allow clinical testing of a treatment for Alzheimer's that is derived from stem cells.

The administration said Tuesday that it has approved clinical testing of "Neurostem," a treatment for Alzheimer's made from stem cells found in the blood of umbilical cords.

The tests will be held to see if Neurostem can suppress the destruction of brain nerve cells or serve as a fundamental cure in regenerating nerves.

The tests will be held at Samsung Medical Center on Alzheimer’s patients to verify the safety and potential effects of the new treatment.