Gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel scaffold loaded with activated Schwann cells attenuates apoptosis and promotes functional recovery following spinal cord injury

EXPERIMENTAL AND THERAPEUTIC MEDICINE, 2023 · DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.11843 · Published: January 1, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Biomedical

Simple Explanation

This study explores a new approach to treating spinal cord injuries (SCI) by combining activated Schwann cells (ASCs) with a 3D gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel scaffold. The ASCs, which are cells that support nerve regeneration, were encapsulated within the GelMA hydrogel to create a supportive environment for cell survival and to promote tissue repair at the injury site. The results showed that this combination significantly reduced cell death (apoptosis) and improved functional recovery in rats with SCI, suggesting it could be a promising therapeutic strategy.

Study Duration

6 Weeks

Participants

80 SD rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

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ASCs exhibited a favorable survival and proliferative ability in the 3D GelMA hydrogel.
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The scaffold transplantation significantly reduced the cavities and improved functional recovery.
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GelMA/ASCs implants significantly inhibited cell apoptosis following SCI and this effect may be mediated via the p38 MAPK pathway.

Research Summary

The present study encapsulated activated Schwann cells (ASCs) in a 3D gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel in order to investigate its therapeutic effects on SCI. The scaffold was transplanted into the spinal cord of rats in the hemisection model. Behavioral tests and hematoxylin and eosin staining were employed to assess the locomotion recovery and lesion areas before and after treatment. Overall, these findings indicated that ASCs combined with the 3D GelMA hydrogel may be a promising therapeutic strategy for SCI.

Practical Implications

Potential Therapeutic Strategy

The combination of ASCs and GelMA hydrogel shows promise as a therapeutic strategy for spinal cord injury.

Improved Functional Recovery

The study demonstrated improved motor function recovery in rats with SCI using the GelMA/ASC scaffold.

Reduced Cell Apoptosis

The GelMA/ASC treatment can decrease cell apoptosis following SCI.

Study Limitations

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