Enhanced regeneration and functional recovery after spinal root avulsion by manipulation of the proteoglycan receptor PTPσ

Spinal nerve root avulsion is a serious injury where spinal nerves disconnect from the spinal cord, often leading to motor dysfunction. This study explores a potential treatment by targeting a specific receptor, PTPσ, which is involved in inhibiting nerve regeneration. The researchers used a peptide called ISP to modulate PTPσ after spinal root avulsion and re-implantation in rats. The results showed that ISP treatment enhanced nerve regeneration, reduced motoneuron death, and improved motor function recovery. This research suggests that modulating PTPσ with ISP could be a promising therapeutic approach for treating spinal root avulsion injuries and improving patient outcomes.

• 1
  ISP treatment significantly increased motor functional recovery after spinal root avulsion and re-implantation, as measured by the Terzis grooming test.
• 2
  The study found that ISP treatment reduced motoneuron death and increased the number of regenerating cells in the spinal cord after injury.
• 3
  ISP treatment resulted in healthier motor endplates and reduced muscle loss, indicating improved neuromuscular function.