A 3D Fiber-Hydrogel Based Non-Viral Gene Delivery Platform Reveals that microRNAs Promote Axon Regeneration and Enhance Functional Recovery Following Spinal Cord Injury

This research explores a new way to treat spinal cord injuries (SCI) by not only addressing the environment around the injury but also stimulating the nerve cells' own ability to regrow. The method involves a 3D scaffold made of fibers and a gel that can be implanted into the injured spinal cord to provide support and deliver microRNAs (miRs). These miRs, specifically a combination called Axon miRs, are designed to enhance axon regeneration, which is the regrowth of nerve fibers.

• 1
  Axon miRs treatment, along with an anti-inflammatory drug, significantly enhances axon regeneration and functional recovery after spinal cord injury.
• 2
  The combined treatment decreases the expression of pro-inflammatory genes and increases the expression of genes related to extracellular matrix deposition.
• 3
  Increased dosage of Axon miRs, along with the anti-inflammatory drug, further promotes functional recovery and remyelination.