Emerging molecular therapeutic targets for spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating neurological disorder with no cure. Recent studies have advanced our understanding of SCI pathophysiology and preclinical therapeutic strategies, including molecular therapies. After SCI, tissue damage and repair involve interactions among neurons, axons, glia, and leukocytes. Numerous cellular genes and molecules have become therapeutic targets. Researchers have made progress in identifying molecular therapies in animal studies. Combining promising approaches targeting different mechanisms should exhibit synergistic actions for maximal functional restoration.

• 1
  Early surgical decompression appears to improve neurological function in preclinical and clinical studies.
• 2
  Strategies that suppress M1 macrophage activities and enhance M2 macrophage functions are beneficial for tissue repair and recovery after SCI.
• 3
  Repairing damaging mitochondria is potentially important for treating acute SCI, and several agents have been employed to maintain mitochondrial function.