Mediators of Inflammation, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/5604103 · Published: January 27, 2023
Axonal regeneration is crucial for spinal cord injury (SCI) treatment. The growth of neuronal axons relies on the cytoskeleton, with microtubules playing a vital role. Moderate microtubule stabilization supports axon growth, overcoming obstacles to regeneration. After SCI, damaged axons form growth cones with decreased tubulin stability, hindering regeneration. Taxol, a clinically safe drug, can enhance microtubule assembly and promote axon extension. This study investigates Taxol's effects on neural stem cells (NSCs) and functional recovery in rats with SCI. Low-dose Taxol promoted NSC differentiation into neurons and extended axons in vitro and in vivo.
Low-dose Taxol holds promise as a clinical agent for promoting axonal regeneration after SCI, given its ability to promote neuronal differentiation and axonal extension.
Targeting microtubule stabilization with low-dose Taxol may be a viable strategy for enhancing nerve regeneration and functional recovery in SCI patients.
Further research into Taxol's mechanisms of action and optimization of dosing regimens could lead to the development of more effective therapies for SCI and other neurological disorders.