Gene modification after spinal cord injury: Mechanisms and therapeutics

Experimental Neurology, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114156 · Published: June 28, 2022

Simple Explanation

This special issue provides an overview of genetic engineering approaches for designing and testing therapeutic candidates for spinal cord injury (SCI). It also aims to identify mechanisms and post-injury changes in spinal circuits after injury and/or recovery. The use of chemogenetic approaches to functionally and anatomically dissect neural circuits within the spinal cord is explored. Advantages and concerns using designer compounds are discussed. The special issue highlights the importance of developing therapies to restore multiple functions lost after SCI. Some of these functions are apparent only to those living with SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Peripherally delivered gene therapies show potential as treatments for spinal cord disorders.
2
Inducible viral vectors enable controlled expression of therapeutic transgenes, improving the safety of gene therapy approaches.
3
Mapping spinal cord circuits connecting onto peripheral targets can be achieved using anterograde and retrograde transsynaptic viral tracer approaches.

Research Summary

This special issue focuses on genetic engineering approaches to treat spinal cord injury (SCI), aiming to identify mechanisms and post-injury changes in spinal circuits. The collection of articles discusses various viral vector-based candidates to enhance axonal regeneration and functional recovery after SCI. The issue emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the complex changes in supraspinal connectome after SCI to improve restorative therapies.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Development

Genetic modification tools hold the potential to deliver new therapies for SCI by targeting specific cells and circuits.

Mechanistic Insight

Advancements in gene modification provide mechanistic insight into circuits and functions involved in injury and repair processes after SCI.

Personalized Treatment

Mapping supraspinal connectome and understanding individual variations can lead to personalized gene therapy approaches.

Study Limitations

1
Overexpression of certain genes, like Akt, can lead to unintended consequences such as epilepsy.
2
Unanticipated pathophysiologies may limit recovery even when axon regeneration is achieved.
3
Ensuring the safety and controlled expression of therapeutic transgenes is crucial for effective gene therapy.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury