Neuroprotection and immunomodulation by xenografted human mesenchymal stem cells following spinal cord ventral root avulsion

Scientific Reports, 2015 · DOI: 10.1038/srep16167 · Published: November 9, 2015

Regenerative Medicine Immunology Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the effects of transplanting human adipose tissue mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) into rats with spinal cord injuries. The researchers found that the transplanted stem cells helped protect nerve cells, reduce inflammation, and improve motor neuron survival. These findings suggest that AT-MSCs could be a promising treatment for neuronal lesions.

Study Duration

2 weeks

Participants

Lewis rats (n=5) per group

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
AT-MSCs transplantation increased neuronal survival and partially preserved synaptophysin-positive nerve terminals.
2
The treatment reduced pro-inflammatory reactions by suppressing lymphocyte, astroglia, and microglia effects.
3
Injected AT-MSCs survived for at least 14 days in the rat spinal cord.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates that human AT-MSCs can exert neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects in a rat model of ventral root avulsion (VRA). The researchers found that human AT-MSCs locally suppress the rat immune system by reducing T cells and resident glia reactivity in the affected area. Furthermore, AT-MSCs increase motor neuron survival through neuroprotective mechanisms.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

AT-MSCs show promise as a therapy for neuronal lesions due to their neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects.

Clinical Trial Feasibility

The study supports the feasibility of clinical studies using autologous and allogeneic stem cell injection.

Further Research

Future studies are needed to assess the regenerative potential of AT-MSCs in combination with root re-implantation.

Study Limitations

1
The study only assessed the effects of AT-MSCs for a short period (14 days).
2
The study did not assess the impact of AT-MSCs on the animal's movements or functional recovery.
3
The study did not re-implant the avulsioned nerve roots, which is essential for a complete regenerative process.

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