Exp Neurol, 2017 · DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2016.03.026 · Published: January 1, 2017
This study investigates how daily exposure to brief periods of low oxygen (daily acute intermittent hypoxia or dAIH) can improve breathing in rats with chronic spinal cord injuries. The research also explores the role of adenosine receptors in this process. The researchers found that dAIH, combined with blocking adenosine 2A receptors, significantly improved breathing capacity and diaphragm activity in these rats. This suggests a potential therapeutic strategy for enhancing respiratory recovery after chronic spinal injuries. The study highlights that the body's response to dAIH changes over time after a spinal injury, shifting from an adenosine-dependent mechanism to a serotonin-dependent one. Understanding these changes is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Combined dAIH and A2A receptor inhibition may be a simple, safe, and effective strategy to accelerate/enhance functional recovery of breathing capacity in patients with respiratory impairment from chronic spinal injury.
The shift from adenosine-dependent to serotonin-dependent mechanisms suggests the need for tailored treatment approaches based on the chronicity of the injury.
The relevance of this finding is that combined KW6002 and dAIH may prevent/minimize respiratory complications (e.g. atelectasis, pneumonia) frequently present with cervical SCI.