Modulation of inflammatory factors predicts the outcome following spinal cord injury

Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-020-01727-1 · Published: May 25, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Genetics

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to the disruption of axonal tracts and is a major cause of disability. After the initial injury, a cascade of events including inflammation can lead to neurological disorders. Inflammation in the early stages of SCI can promote recovery, while premature inhibition of inflammation might worsen the damage. Different types of inflammatory cells play different roles in neuroprotection. This study suggests that higher serum levels of IL-4 and IL-10 can reflect the restorability degree of SCI and could be potential biomarkers for the prognosis of SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Higher serum levels of IL-4 and IL-10 are associated with a better prognosis in SCI, suggesting they could be potential biomarkers.
2
The infiltration of the M2 subtype of macrophages in the injured spinal cord is associated with a better prognosis.
3
Increased axonal regrowth in the injured spinal cord contributes to a better prognosis following SCI.

Research Summary

This study investigated the relationship between inflammatory responses and prognosis in spinal cord injury (SCI). The researchers found that higher serum levels of IL-4 and IL-10 were associated with better recovery in rats with SCI. The study also found that the polarization of macrophages from M1 to M2 and increased axonal regeneration were associated with improved outcomes after SCI.

Practical Implications

Prognostic biomarkers

Serum levels of IL-4 and IL-10 may serve as serologic markers to forecast SCI prognosis.

Therapeutic target

Promoting macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 may enhance axonal regeneration.

Inflammation Management

Modulating the inflammatory response may improve outcomes after spinal cord injury.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on rats, and the results may not be directly applicable to humans.
2
Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms between serum IL-4, IL-10, and macrophage polarization in regulating axon regeneration.
3
Auxiliary examinations such as imaging and electro-physiological examinations are frequently used to evaluate SCI severity but fail to predict the prognosis.

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