Anatomical study of serotonergic innervation and 5-HT1A receptor in the human spinal cord

Cell Death and Disease, 2011 · DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2011.98 · Published: October 13, 2011

Simple Explanation

This study maps the presence of serotonin and its receptors in the human spinal cord. Understanding this system is important for developing therapies for spinal cord injuries. The researchers found serotonin and its receptors in areas of the spinal cord that control movement and sensation. These findings are similar to what has been seen in animal studies. This research provides a foundation for developing targeted treatments for spinal cord injuries that aim to restore motor and sensory functions by manipulating the serotonin system.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Nine brain-dead organ-donor patients (17–74 years old, mean age: 52±18; 2 females and 7 males)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Serotonergic profiles are present in the ventral horn, surrounding motoneurons, and also contact their presumptive dendrites at the lumbar level.
2
5-HT1A receptors are present in the same area as serotonergic profiles in the ventral horn, but are more densely expressed at the lumbar level.
3
Numerous serotonergic profiles and high levels of 5-HT1A receptors were observed in the superficial part of the dorsal horn.

Research Summary

The study provides a detailed anatomical description of serotonergic projections and 5-HT1A receptor distribution in the human spinal cord at thoracic and lumbar levels. The findings reveal similarities between human and animal models regarding the organization of serotonergic pathways, particularly in the dorsal horn, IML region, and ventral horn. The research suggests potential targets for therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring pain control, genito-urinary functions, and locomotion in spinal cord-injured patients.

Practical Implications

Targeted Therapies

The mapping of serotonergic innervation and 5-HT1A receptors can inform the development of specific therapies for spinal cord injuries targeting the serotonergic system.

Preclinical Model Validation

The similarities between human and animal models validate the use of these species for preclinical studies of spinal cord injury and potential treatments.

Clinical Trial Design

The anatomical data can contribute to better-defined clinical trials aimed at restoring pain control, genito-urinary functions, and locomotion in paraplegic patients.

Study Limitations

1
Heterogeneity of the samples due to different conditions of death and processing.
2
Lack of quantitative appraisal due to sample heterogeneity.
3
The study is limited to thoracic and lumbar segments of the spinal cord.

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