The effect of a polyurethane-based reverse thermal gel on bone marrow stromal cell transplant survival and spinal cord repair

Biomaterials, 2014 · DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2013.11.062 · Published: February 1, 2014

Regenerative Medicine Neurology Biomedical

Simple Explanation

Cell therapy for repairing nervous tissue is often hindered by poor survival of the transplanted cells. This study investigates whether a special gel can help bone marrow cells survive better when transplanted into a damaged spinal cord. The gel, called ESHU, is designed to protect the transplanted bone marrow cells from dying, especially from stress caused by damage to the spinal cord. The study found that using the gel improved the survival of the transplanted cells, reduced tissue damage, and helped the rats recover their motor skills after a spinal cord injury.

Study Duration

6 Weeks

Participants

80 Female adult Sprague Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Level 1: Experimental study using a rat model

Key Findings

1
Transplantation of BMSCs in ESHU resulted in a 3.5-fold increase in BMSC survival at one week post-injury.
2
There was a 66% increase in spared nervous tissue volume at four weeks post-injury when BMSCs were transplanted in ESHU.
3
In vitro, ESHU protected BMSCs from hydrogen peroxide-mediated death, resulting in a four-fold increase in BMSC survival.

Research Summary

This study investigates the effects of ESHU on BMSC transplant survival and repair using a rat model of spinal cord contusion. Transplantation of BMSCs in ESHU at three days post-contusion resulted in a 3.5-fold increase in BMSC survival at one week post-injury and a 66% increase in spared nervous tissue volume at four weeks post-injury. ESHU protected BMSCs transplanted is a spinal cord contusion from death thereby augmenting their effects on neuroprotection leading to improved behavioral restoration.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Cell Therapy

The study suggests that improving the survival of transplanted cells can significantly enhance the effectiveness of cell-based therapies for nervous system injuries.

Therapeutic Potential of ESHU

ESHU has the potential to be used as a delivery vehicle for cells and drugs in the treatment of spinal cord injuries and other neurological disorders.

Wider Therapeutic Relevance

Because oxidative stress is part of many diseases where BMSCs can be effective, such as cardiac myopathy and peripheral arterial disease, ESHU may have wide therapeutic relevance.

Study Limitations

1
The effect was transient possibly due to degradation of ESHU.
2
The anatomical correlates underlying improved motor recovery are not completely known
3
Future studies need to define molecular factors in ESHU’s protective actions and whether the protection by ESHU in vivo is concentration-dependent.

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