Use of a combination strategy to improve neuroprotection and neuroregeneration in a rat model of acute spinal cord injury

Neural Regen Res, 2019 · DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.250627 · Published: June 1, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to tissue damage and inflammation, hindering functional recovery. Therapies that modulate the immune response after SCI are crucial for limiting damage. Restoring neural tissue after SCI is challenging due to scar formation, which acts as a barrier to regeneration. Combining different therapeutic strategies with various beneficial effects is necessary to neutralize degenerative phenomena and promote neural tissue restoration. This study explores the combined effects of immunization with neural-derived peptides (INDP), scar formation-inhibition using 2-2 dipyridyl (DPY), fibrin glue (FG) as scaffold of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). This combination is based on the individual benefits these strategies have shown.

Study Duration

60 days

Participants

42 female Sprague-Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The combination therapy (DPY+ INDP + FG + MSCs) was the best strategy to promote motor and sensibility recovery in rats with acute spinal cord injury.
2
Significant increases in tissue preservation and axonal density were observed in the combination therapy group, indicating potential effects on the protection and regeneration of neural tissue.
3
The combination strategy (DPY + INDP + FG + MSC) and DPY + INDP groups showed a significant increase in the mechanical withdrawal threshold compared with PBS, sham-operated and the other spinal cord injured groups.

Research Summary

This study investigated the effect of combining four different strategies (INDP, DPY, FG, and MSCs) on the behavioral and morphological recovery of rats with acute SCI. The results showed that animals treated with DPY + INDP + FG + MSC presented the best motor and sensory recovery compared to other groups, with improved locomotor recovery observed from the first week. The combination strategy induced both neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, as evidenced by increased axonal density and reduced mechanical hypersensitivity, suggesting its potential as a therapy for SCI.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

The combination therapy shows promise for improving motor and sensory recovery after spinal cord injury.

Neuroprotection and Regeneration

The therapy can protect neural tissue and promote its regeneration, offering a comprehensive approach to SCI treatment.

Reduced Hypersensitivity

The therapy reduces mechanical hypersensitivity, potentially alleviating neuropathic pain associated with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on rats, and results may not directly translate to humans.
2
The exact mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of the combination therapy require further elucidation.
3
This is a preliminary study, and more investigations are needed to provide more satisfactory evidence.

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