Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE) and Its Ligands: Focus on Spinal Cord Injury

Int. J. Mol. Sci., 2014 · DOI: 10.3390/ijms150813172 · Published: July 25, 2014

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in neuronal and glial death and the loss of axons at the injury site. Inflammation after SCI leads to the inhibition of tissue regeneration and reduced neuronal survival. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a transmembrane protein and receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily. RAGE is implicated in inflammation and neurodegeneration. The present review highlights recent research regarding RAGE as a compelling target for the treatment of SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
RAGE and its ligands appears to contribute to the inflammatory response caused by SCI by regulating the secretion of cytokines and chemokines and modulating apoptosis signaling
2
RAGE and its ligands may improve functional decline after SCI by promoting neurite outgrowth, which is crucial for neurite regeneration after CNS injury
3
RAGE and its ligands may promote the myelination of axons and axonal regeneration as treatments for injured spinal cords by activating Schwann cells.

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Target Identification

RAGE and its ligands present a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention in spinal cord injury, particularly in modulating inflammation and promoting axonal regeneration.

Understanding SCI Mechanisms

Further studies are needed to fully understand the various mechanisms by which RAGE and its ligands contribute to functional decline after SCI.

Schwann Cell Activation

Targeting RAGE and its ligands may promote Schwann cell activation, leading to improved myelination and axonal regeneration in injured spinal cords.

Study Limitations

1
The relationship between RAGE and SCI has not been fully elucidated.
2
Further studies of RAGE and its ligands in SCI are necessary.
3
The review is limited to the association of RAGE and its ligands with SCI from various perspectives.

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