Meta analysis of olfactory ensheathing cell transplantation promoting functional recovery of motor nerves in rats with complete spinal cord transection

Neural Regeneration Research, 2014 · DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.143434 · Published: October 1, 2014

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the potential of olfactory ensheathing cell (OEC) transplantation to improve motor function in rats with complete spinal cord transection. OECs are specialized glial cells known for promoting axonal growth. The research team conducted a meta-analysis, pooling data from six randomized controlled trials, to assess the effectiveness of OEC transplantation compared to control groups. The meta-analysis revealed that rats receiving OEC transplants showed significantly higher Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) scores, indicating improved motor function in their hindlimbs, compared to control groups.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

137 rats

Evidence Level

Level 1: Meta analysis of randomized controlled trials

Key Findings

1
Meta-analysis demonstrated that BBB scores were significantly higher in the olfactory ensheathing cell transplantation group compared with the control group.
2
Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the findings, indicating that the influence of heterogeneity on the meta-analysis was limited.
3
Histological investigations in included studies have shown the obvious growth of axons across the transection site, through the graft and into the distal cord stump and regrowth of brainstem serotonergic fibers into the distal cord.

Research Summary

This meta-analysis evaluated the effects of olfactory ensheathing cell transplantation on functional recovery of rats with complete spinal cord transection. Six randomized controlled trials were included, and the meta-analysis showed that Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan scores were significantly higher in the olfactory ensheathing cell transplantation group compared with the control group. The study concludes that experimental studies suggest olfactory ensheathing cell transplantation can promote the functional recovery of motor nerves in rats with complete spinal cord transection.

Practical Implications

Potential Therapeutic Strategy

OEC transplantation may offer a promising therapeutic approach for promoting functional recovery after spinal cord injury.

Further Research Needed

Large-sample or multi-center randomized controlled trials are required to validate the clinical application of OEC transplantation.

Understanding Mechanisms

Further investigation into the mechanisms by which OECs promote axonal regeneration and functional recovery is warranted.

Study Limitations

1
Small number of included studies resulting in a limited sample size.
2
Heterogeneity in study designs, including variations in rat strains, gender, age, and laboratory conditions.
3
Inclusion criteria limited to studies published in Chinese and English without mention of allocation concealment.

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