Effect of electrical stimulation on neural regeneration via the p38-RhoA and ERK1/2-Bcl-2 pathways in spinal cord-injured rats

Neural Regen Res, 2018 · DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.226404 · Published: February 1, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Neurology

Simple Explanation

This research investigates how electrical stimulation (ES) affects spinal cord injury (SCI) recovery at a molecular level in rats. The study examines the roles of p38-RhoA and ERK1/2-Bcl-2 pathways in the neuroprotective effects of ES after SCI. The findings suggest that ES can promote the recovery of electrophysiological function in injured spinal cords by regulating specific protein levels.

Study Duration

7 days

Participants

21 female Sprague-Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Electrical stimulation significantly shortened the latencies of somatosensory-evoked potentials (SSEPs) in rats with spinal cord injuries.
2
Electrical stimulation increased the amplitudes of SSEPs and levels of PGP9.5, ERK1/2, p38, and Bcl-2 proteins in the injured spinal cord.
3
Electrical stimulation decreased RhoA protein levels in the injured spinal cord, suggesting a potential mechanism for neuroprotection.

Research Summary

This study investigates the molecular mechanisms by which electrical stimulation (ES) promotes neural regeneration in spinal cord-injured rats. The results indicate that ES can modulate the p38-RhoA and ERK1/2-Bcl-2 pathways, leading to improved electrophysiological function. These findings suggest that ES may be a valuable therapeutic approach for promoting recovery after spinal cord injury.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

Electrical stimulation could be developed as a therapeutic intervention to promote neural regeneration and functional recovery after spinal cord injury.

Pathway Modulation

Targeting the p38-RhoA and ERK1/2-Bcl-2 pathways with electrical stimulation may enhance neuroprotection and axonal regeneration.

Electrophysiological Improvement

Electrical stimulation can improve electrophysiological function in the injured spinal cord, potentially leading to enhanced motor and sensory recovery.

Study Limitations

1
The optimal time and duration of electrical stimulation have not yet been established.
2
Samples should be obtained at several time points during the experimental period.
3
Correlation between electrophysiological test and western blot analysis results.

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