Administration of prosaposin-derived neurotrophic factor to neural tube defects facilitates regeneration and restores neurological functions

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe birth defects affecting the brain and spinal cord, often leading to death or lifelong disabilities. Current treatments are limited, so this study explores a new therapeutic approach using a molecule called PS18. The researchers used a chicken model of spina bifida, a type of NTD, and administered PS18 directly into the amniotic fluid surrounding the developing embryo. They found that PS18 helped to close the spinal cord defect and protect it from further damage. Chicks treated with PS18 showed improved walking ability, sensorimotor responses, and bowel control compared to untreated chicks. This suggests that PS18 could be a promising new treatment for NTDs and other spinal cord injuries.

• 1
  PS18 promoted the formation of a neuroectodermal covering over the defective neural tube within 24-h after treatment, enhancing regeneration and decreasing apoptotic activity.
• 2
  PS18 treatment reduced the SBA wound size and almost completely reformed the spinal cord in the chicken model.
• 3
  SBA chicks treated with PS18 exhibited relatively normal walking, sensorimotor responses, and reduced pain-associated behavior in postnatal life, demonstrating functional recovery.