Biomaterials for Local, Controlled Drug Delivery to the Injured Spinal Cord

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition leading to permanent paralysis. Current drug treatments are limited because they often don't reach the injury site effectively or for long enough. This review explores using biomaterials to deliver drugs directly to the injured spinal cord. These materials, like hydrogels and fibers, can release drugs in a controlled manner over time. By carefully choosing biomaterials and drug release strategies, we can better target the complex physiological changes that occur after SCI, potentially leading to improved regeneration and recovery.

• 1
  Hydrogels, particles, and fibers/conduits are commonly used biomaterials for CNS drug delivery, providing a matrix for tissue restoration and tunable drug release.
• 2
  Hydrogels are advantageous for their injectability and ability to fill irregular injury geometries, while particles allow for more sustained and controlled drug release.
• 3
  Fibers and conduits offer anisotropic guidance cues for white matter tract regeneration, but their rigidity can be a limitation in contusive injuries.