Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Transplantation for Severe Spinal Cord Injury: Functional Improvement Supported by Angiogenesis and Neuroprotection

Cells, 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/cells12111470 · Published: May 25, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are isolated from various tissues and MSC transplantation is useful in the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI). Adipose-derived MSCs (AD-MSCs) are autologous transplantable materials isolated from subcutaneous adipose tissue. AD-MSCs are useful because they can be harvested in large amounts from adipose tissue and contain high levels of stem cells. The aims of this study were to assess the functional improvement of severe SCI by AD-MSC transplantation combined with treadmill training. This study investigates the therapeutic effects of AD-MSCs on severe SCI, focusing on functional improvements, angiogenesis, macrophage accumulation, and cytokine expression under oxidative stress.

Study Duration

10 weeks

Participants

80 male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
AD-MSC transplantation combined with treadmill exercise training significantly improved motor function in severe SCI compared to other groups.
2
Oxidative stress increased the expression of VEGF and CCL2 in AD-MSCs, suggesting enhanced exocrine effects under stress conditions.
3
AD-MSC transplantation promoted angiogenesis and inhibited macrophage accumulation in the acute phase, while also suppressing scar/cavity formation and promoting tissue repair in the subacute phase.

Research Summary

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (AD-MSCs) in treating severe spinal cord injury (SCI), focusing on functional recovery, angiogenesis, and neuroprotection. The research found that AD-MSC transplantation, when combined with treadmill exercise, significantly improved motor function in rats with severe SCI. The study also highlighted that AD-MSCs promoted angiogenesis, modulated macrophage accumulation, and suppressed scar formation, suggesting their potential as a therapeutic option for severe SCI.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Strategy

Combining AD-MSC transplantation with rehabilitation, specifically treadmill exercise, could be a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with severe SCI.

Angiogenesis and Neuroprotection

AD-MSCs can promote angiogenesis and neuroprotection, which are critical for functional recovery after SCI.

Oxidative Stress Response

Understanding the response of AD-MSCs to oxidative stress can help optimize transplantation protocols and enhance their therapeutic effects.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on rats, and the results may not be directly applicable to humans.
2
The exact mechanisms by which AD-MSCs exert their therapeutic effects need further investigation.
3
Long-term effects of AD-MSC transplantation and treadmill exercise on SCI recovery were not fully evaluated.

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