Advancements and mechanisms of stem cell-based therapies for spinal cord injury in animals

International Journal of Surgery, 2024 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/JS9.0000000000001074 · Published: January 24, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Veterinary Medicine

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a neurodegenerative disorder that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often leading to permanent loss of sensation and movement. Stem cell therapy offers a promising avenue for treatment by regenerating damaged nerve cells. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a preferred choice for cell-based therapies due to their versatility in sources, differentiation potential, immunomodulatory effects, homing capabilities, and paracrine activity. MSCs can be obtained from various tissue sources without ethical concerns. Transplanted MSCs have complex mechanisms for restoring normalcy after SCI, including direct effects involving the recruitment of new neurons and glial cells, and indirect effects through the secretion of neurotrophic factors and immunomodulation.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Animals

Evidence Level

Review Article

Key Findings

1
MSCs can differentiate into multiple cell lineages including osteoblasts, chondrocytes, adipocytes, ﬁbroblasts, neurons and glial cells, making them appealing for therapeutic applications.
2
MSCs possess remarkable homing ability, which refers to their capacity to migrate and target speciﬁc tissues or injured areas within the body.
3
MSCs secrete paracrine and neurotrophic substances with anti-inﬂammatory, antiapoptotic, antioxidative, angiogenic, axonal development, and neuroregenerative properties.

Research Summary

Mesenchymal stem cell therapy holds signiﬁcant promise for treating SCI, aiming to restore motor and sensory function. Transplanted MSCs play a crucial role in SCI treatment. They not only provide neurons and glial cells but also create an optimal environment for neuroregeneration and angiogenesis at the injury site. Future research should focus on identifying the most effective source of MSCs, determining the optimal cell number and infusion methods, and exploring the potential beneﬁts of cotransplantation with growth factors and biomaterials.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

MSC therapy offers a potential avenue for restoring motor and sensory function in SCI patients.

Immunomodulation

MSCs' ability to modulate the immune response can help reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair in SCI.

Neuroregeneration

MSCs can create an optimal environment for neuroregeneration and angiogenesis at the injury site, supporting axonal regeneration.

Study Limitations

1
The efﬁcacy of MSCs in preclinical studies and clinical trials varies, possibly due to factors such as the neuropathology of SCI and the source and dosage of MSCs.
2
The challenging, toxic environment associated with SCI poses a threat to the survival of the transplanted MSCs.
3
The required cell dose and frequency of doses, the mechanism of action of MSCs, and the cellular processes that prevent neural circuit recovery after SCI remain unclear.

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