Integrating hydrogels manipulate ECM deposition after spinal cord injury for specific neural reconnections via neuronal relays

This research introduces a bioinspired hydrogel, HADA/HRR, to improve tissue integration after spinal cord injury (SCI). The hydrogel manipulates the behavior of cells, transforming dense scars into a supportive structure for nerve regrowth. The hydrogel incorporates NT3 and curcumin to promote nerve regrowth and the survival of interneurons, which act as relays for establishing specific nerve connections. This approach led to improvements in motor, sensory, and bladder functions in rats with complete spinal cord injury. The study also demonstrated the establishment of heterogeneous neural connections across hemisected lesions in canines, significantly improving motor functions. These findings suggest that biomaterials can stimulate beneficial biological activities for SCI repair.

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  HADA/HRR hydrogels can reverse the formation of fibrotic scar after SCI, transforming it into a supportive substrate for regenerating axons.
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  HADA/HRR-based hydrogels regulated inflammation after SCI by decreasing ECM expression and inflammatory cytokine production.
• 3
  HADA/HRR + NT3/Cur hydrogel facilitated specific neuronal relaying connections across lesion. HADA/HRR + NT3/Cur hydrogel promoted activation of relaying neurons to transmit signals across the lesion