Enhanced axon outgrowth of spinal motor neurons in co-culturing with dorsal root ganglions antagonizes the growth inhibitory environment

Regenerative Therapy, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.reth.2023.11.013 · Published: November 22, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons can help spinal motor neurons (SMNs) grow after spinal cord injury (SCI). Forming a bridge of functional axons is key to restoring motor function after SCI. The researchers used a 3D-printed system to co-culture DRGs and SMNs, mimicking the inhibitory environment after SCI with a substance called CSPG. They measured how well the neurons grew under different conditions. The results showed that DRGs can guide and enhance the growth of SMNs, even in the presence of CSPG, suggesting a potential strategy for SCI treatment by promoting axon regeneration.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

In vitro study

Key Findings

1
Co-culturing DRGs and SMNAs increased SMNA axonal length by 32.1%.
2
The CSPG matrix reduced the axonal length of DRGs and SMNAs by 46.2 % and 17.7 %, respectively.
3
The inhibitory effect of CSPG was antagonized by co-culturing DRGs and SMNAs, especially for SMNAs.

Research Summary

This study explores the potential of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons to enhance the axon outgrowth of spinal motor neurons (SMNs) in an inhibitory environment mimicking spinal cord injury (SCI). Using a 3D-printed co-culture system and CSPG to create an inhibitory matrix, the researchers found that DRGs can guide and promote SMN axon growth, even in the presence of CSPG. These findings suggest a promising approach for SCI treatment by leveraging the enhanced axon outgrowth facilitated by DRGs to restore functional connectivity.

Practical Implications

SCI Treatment Strategy

Utilizing enhanced outgrowth of axons to restore functional connectivity in SCI patients.

Axon-Facilitated Reconstruction

Deepens understanding of axon-facilitated reconstruction of the motor circuitry.

Overcoming Inhibitory Environment

Co-culture of SMNs and DRGs is capable of overcoming the inhibitory environment containing CSPG after SCI.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited and focuses only on the in vitro relationship of DRG and SMNA axons.
2
The culture system doesn't involve astrocytes and microglia.
3
The molecular mechanism of how the DRG axons affect the axonal growth patterns of SMNs is still unclear.

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