Research progress of endogenous neural stem cells in spinal cord injury

ibrain, 2022 · DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12048 · Published: August 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Neurology

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe disabling disease that affects sensory, motor, and other bodily functions. It also impacts patients' mental health, leading to long-term disabilities. Endogenous neural stem cells (ENSCs) can be activated after SCI to differentiate into nerve cells, promoting repair. However, in adults, the spinal cord's central canal is often blocked, preventing ENSC activation. This review examines the role of ENSCs in SCI, focusing on their origin, transformation, treatment, and influencing factors, to explore new avenues for clinical SCI treatment.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
ENSCs are located in the ependymal region of the central canal and can differentiate into various nerve cells after SCI.
2
The central canal of the spinal cord is often occluded in adults, which inhibits the activation and proliferation of ENSCs after SCI.
3
The microenvironment after SCI plays a crucial role in ENSC proliferation and differentiation, affecting spinal cord repair.

Research Summary

This review discusses the potential of endogenous neural stem cells (ENSCs) in treating spinal cord injury (SCI). It addresses the challenges related to ENSC activation and proliferation due to the occlusion of the central canal in adults and the adverse changes in the microenvironment after SCI. The review also explores various influencing factors, such as neurotrophic factors, hormones, physical stimulation, and scaffold materials, which could enhance ENSC therapy for SCI.

Practical Implications

Clinical Treatment Strategies

Understanding ENSC behavior and influencing factors can aid in developing effective clinical treatments for SCI.

Microenvironment Reconstruction

Focusing on reconstructing the microenvironment after SCI can improve ENSC proliferation and differentiation, leading to better repair outcomes.

Targeted Therapies

Identifying optimal treatment plans involving neurotrophic factors, hormones, and physical therapies can enhance ENSC activation and proliferation for SCI repair.

Study Limitations

1
Central canal occlusion in adults hinders ENSC activation.
2
Destruction of the microenvironment post-SCI affects ENSC function.
3
Translating successful animal research to effective clinical treatments remains a challenge.

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