Neural Regeneration Research, 2017 · DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.199006 · Published: February 1, 2017
This study investigates how edaravone, a drug used for stroke, can protect spinal cord astrocytes from damage caused by lack of oxygen and glucose. The researchers found that edaravone reduces cell death (apoptosis) in these astrocytes by affecting the integrated stress response and caspase activation. These findings suggest edaravone could be a potential treatment to prevent spinal cord damage in situations where blood supply is interrupted.
Edaravone could be repurposed to treat spinal cord injuries or ischemic conditions affecting the spinal cord.
The study provides a rationale for developing new drugs that target the integrated stress response and caspase-12 to protect astrocytes.
The research contributes to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying astrocyte apoptosis in response to stress.