Spinal Reflex Recovery after Dorsal Rhizotomy and Repair with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Gel Combined with Bioengineered Human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESCs)

Stem Cells International, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/8834360 · Published: October 30, 2020

Simple Explanation

This study explores a new way to treat nerve damage in the spinal cord by using a combination of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel and bioengineered human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). The goal is to help restore movement and feeling after a specific type of injury called dorsal rhizotomy (DRZ). Researchers used PRP gel to reconnect damaged nerve roots to the spinal cord, acting like a biological glue. They also used hESCs, modified to produce a growth factor (FGF2), to encourage nerve regeneration and improve recovery after DRZ in rats. The results showed that the combination of PRP gel and hESCs led to better nerve regeneration and functional recovery compared to using PRP gel alone or no treatment. This suggests a potential new approach for treating spinal root injuries.

Study Duration

8 Weeks

Participants

Adult female Lewis rats (~200 g, 8-10 weeks old)

Evidence Level

Level II: Experimental study using animal model

Key Findings

1
The combination of hESCs with PRP gel promoted substantial and prominent axonal regeneration processes after DRZ.
2
The transcript levels for human FGF2 were over 37-fold higher in the induced hESCs than in the noninduced and the wildtype counterparts.
3
Root repair with the PRP gel enabled the reentry of fibers into the spinal cord and hESCs may enhance the regeneration of primary afferents.

Research Summary

This study investigated the potential of combining platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel with bioengineered human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) to treat dorsal rhizotomy (DRZ) in rats. The researchers found that using PRP gel to repair the damaged nerve roots, along with hESCs that overexpress fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), resulted in significant axonal regeneration and functional recovery. The findings suggest that this combined approach could be a promising new strategy for treating spinal root injuries and restoring sensory-motor function.

Practical Implications

Potential new treatment for spinal root injuries

The combined use of PRP gel and bioengineered hESCs offers a novel approach to promote axonal regeneration and functional recovery after dorsal rhizotomy.

Enhanced axonal regeneration

The study demonstrates that hESCs, when combined with PRP gel, can significantly enhance axonal regeneration processes in the injured spinal cord.

Improved sensory-motor function

The findings indicate that early root reconnection, combined with the engrafting of bioengineered stem cells, can effectively improve sensory-motor function after dorsal root axotomy.

Study Limitations

1
Study conducted on animal model (rats), limiting direct applicability to humans.
2
Limited long-term follow-up to assess the durability of the treatment effects.
3
Further research needed to optimize the dosage and delivery method of hESCs.

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