Transplantation of Schwann Cells Inside PVDF-TrFE Conduits to Bridge Transected Rat Spinal Cord Stumps to Promote Axon Regeneration Across the Gap

Journal of Visualized Experiments, 2017 · DOI: doi:10.3791/56077 · Published: November 3, 2017

Simple Explanation

This research focuses on repairing spinal cord injuries using a combination of cells and biomaterials. The goal is to create an environment that supports cell function and axon regeneration at the injury site. The study uses a complete transection model in rats, which is a rigorous method to assess axon regeneration. This model involves completely severing the spinal cord and then using a bridging method to reconnect the separated stumps. The approach involves transplanting Schwann cells (SCs) into a conduit made of PVDF-TrFE, a piezoelectric polymer. The conduit provides structural support, while the SCs secrete factors that promote axon growth. An injectable matrix is also used to improve the interface between the transplant and the host tissue.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Female adult Fischer rats (180 - 200 g body weight)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
GFP-SCs were evenly distributed along and within the conduit after transplantation into the transected spinal cords of rats.
2
Axon regeneration was observed within the conduit, closely associated with the presence of GFP-SCs, indicating the technique successfully promoted axon regeneration between the rostral and caudal stumps.
3
Blood vessels and myelinated axons were found in the center of the SC bridge, indicating successful integration of the transplant with the host tissue.

Research Summary

This study details a surgical technique for transplanting Schwann cells (SCs) within a PVDF-TrFE conduit to bridge a completely transected rat spinal cord. The method aims to promote axon regeneration across the gap created by the injury. The protocol includes preparing the SCs and conduits, performing a complete spinal cord transection at the T8 level, inserting the conduit, and transplanting the SCs mixed with an injectable basement membrane matrix into the conduit. The representative results demonstrate that this technique allows the creation of a SC bridge within a structured conduit and the promotion of axon regeneration along the bridge between the rostral and caudal stumps.

Practical Implications

Conduit Design Improvement

The described methods can be used to investigate and improve conduit designs for SC transplantation in complete spinal cord transection models.

Enhanced Transplant Survival

Drugs, growth factors or other cell types can be incorporated into the conduit to enhance transplant survival and promote axon regeneration.

Clinical Translation Potential

Autologous SC transplantation has been proven safe in humans, offering a potential clinical treatment for spinal cord injuries.

Study Limitations

1
No restoration of the dura.
2
No control over the movement of the conduit/SC transplant after completion of the surgery
3
No alternative method if there is leakage while injecting the SC/injectable matrix mixture.

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