Biodegradable biomatrices and bridging the injured spinal cord: the corticospinal tract as a proof of principle

Cell Tissue Res, 2012 · DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1352-5 · Published: March 14, 2012

Simple Explanation

This review evaluates recent advances in smart biodegradable implants for axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury, focusing on the corticospinal tract. The corticospinal tract is considered a significant challenge in spinal cord regeneration, making its successful repair a key indicator of effective strategies. Future development of smart biodegradable bridges is discussed, aiming to promote corticospinal tract regrowth and regeneration in the injured spinal cord.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
The corticospinal tract is often considered the ultimate challenge in demonstrating the success of repair strategies for spinal cord regeneration.
2
Intrinsic and extrinsic factors involved in the development of the corticospinal tract have provided the basis for studies on corticospinal tract regrowth after spinal injury.
3
Various approaches have led to significant ingrowth of anterogradely labeled regrowing CST into the bridges.

Research Summary

Important advances in the development of smart biodegradable implants for axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury have recently been reported. These advances are evaluated in this review with special emphasis on the regeneration of the corticospinal tract. Based on the findings summarized in this review, the future development of smart biodegradable bridges for CST regrowth and regeneration in the injured spinal cord is discussed.

Practical Implications

Development of Smart Implants

The review highlights the importance of creating smart biodegradable implants that promote axonal regeneration, particularly in the corticospinal tract.

Understanding Corticospinal Tract Regeneration

Success in regenerating the corticospinal tract is a key indicator of effective spinal cord repair strategies.

Future Bridge Development

The findings suggest that future research should focus on developing smart biodegradable bridges to facilitate corticospinal tract regrowth and regeneration.

Study Limitations

1
The major drawback of all bridges currently used and developed is the fact that no re-entry of CST fibers from the graft into the host tissue is noted.
2
Behavioral analysis of repair strategies based on the induction of sprouting of injured CNS fibers in the lesioned spinal cord should include the use of (chronic) pain assays.
3
The relationship between an anatomically observed response related to the function repair and recovery of function is not fully understood.

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