Biomedicines, 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11072026 · Published: July 18, 2023
This study evaluates the effectiveness of delivering methylprednisolone (MP) directly to the site of spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats, using a special carrier called a tri-block copolymer (TBC). The aim was to see if this targeted approach could improve recovery compared to traditional methods. The researchers assessed the rats' motor function by measuring muscle responses to stimulation and analyzing their walking patterns. They looked at how well the rats could move their hind limbs, lift their feet, and maintain balance. The findings suggest that local application of MP with TBC can help restore the excitability of motor centers in the spinal cord, leading to better recovery of weight-supported locomotion, directional control, and balance in rats with SCI.
Local delivery of methylprednisolone with a copolymer may offer a more effective treatment strategy for spinal cord injury by directly targeting the injury site and reducing systemic side effects.
The combination of methylprednisolone and copolymer can enhance the restoration of motor functions, including locomotion, balance, and directional control, in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
The presented methodology for motion video analysis provides a reliable and accurate way to quantify and interpret the effects of therapeutic interventions on motor function recovery in SCI models.