Controlled release of MIF siRNA and GDNF protein from a photocurable scaffold efficiently repairs spinal cord injury

This study introduces a new approach to treat spinal cord injuries (SCI) by combining siRNA-based gene therapy with protein therapy. This involves using a photocurable scaffold to deliver macrophage migration-inhibitory factor (MIF) targeted siRNA and GDNF protein to the injury site. The scaffold is designed to be injectable, flexible, and biodegradable, allowing it to be easily administered and release the therapeutic agents in a controlled manner. The GDNF protein is chemically modified within the scaffold to enhance its stability and effectiveness. The results showed that the scaffold promoted neuron regeneration, inhibited inflammation, and significantly improved motor function in SCI mice. This suggests that the scaffold has the potential to be a candidate gene formulation applied to clinical SCI treatment.

• 1
  The GDNF-PLNG/siMIF scaffold promotes neuron regeneration by upregulation of neuron cytokine production and inhibits inflammation through the downregulation immune pathway.
• 2
  GDNF-PLNG/siMIF scaffold increases the collagen and integrin expression to promote spinal cord repairing and significantly improve motor function.
• 3
  The scaffold exhibited the storage and protection ability of drugs for a long time and could release the drugs in a way of controlled-sustained release.