Polymer-Based Scaffold Strategies for Spinal Cord Repair and Regeneration

Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 2020 · DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.590549 · Published: October 7, 2020

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to acute loss of motor and sensory function beneath the injury level and is linked to a dismal prognosis. Polymer-mediated approaches demonstrate promising treatment forms to remyelinate or regenerate the axons and to integrate new neural cells in the SCI. Polymer-based materials have become a newly emerging strategy in SCI, intending to fill the created gap in the injured site and modify the injured area toward a pro-restorative environment.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
SCI leads to loss of motor and sensory function and has a dismal prognosis, but polymer-mediated approaches show promise.
2
Polymer-based materials can fill gaps in the injured spinal cord site and create a pro-restorative environment.
3
The review highlights the recent encouraging applications of polymer-based scaffolds in developing novel SCI therapy.

Research Summary

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to acute loss of motor and sensory function and has a dismal prognosis. Advancements in polymer-mediated approaches demonstrate promising treatment forms to remyelinate or regenerate axons and integrate new neural cells. Polymer-based therapies can play a dual role in neuroprotective, as well as neurogenerative therapeutics and acting as a scaﬀold for tissue engineering and cell-based treatments to enhance rejuvenation.

Practical Implications

Novel SCI Therapies

Polymer-based scaffolds can be used to develop novel SCI therapies by promoting remyelination, regeneration, and integration of new neural cells.

Drug Delivery

Polymers can be used to locally deliver synergistic cells, growth factors, and bioactive substances to the injured spinal cord, aiding neuroprotection and neuroregeneration.

Tissue Engineering

Polymer scaffolds can serve as a framework for tissue engineering and cell-based treatments, enhancing spinal cord rejuvenation.

Study Limitations

1
Current therapies have shown therapeutic prospectives in animal models, but their potential to mediate clinical improvements after SCI remains elusive.
2
Challenges remain in preventing the progression of subsidiary injury cascades and regenerating the injured spinal cord.
3
Many small molecule drugs have been developed to promote the repair of the spinal cord, but the serious complications brought by the systemic high-dose application of MP cannot be ignored.

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