Use of Cells, Supplements, and Peptides as Therapeutic Strategies for Modulating Inﬂammation after Spinal Cord Injury: An Update

Int. J. Mol. Sci., 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813946 · Published: September 11, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Immunology

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to inflammation, which worsens the damage. Current treatments are not fully effective. This review explores using cell therapy, peptides, and supplements to control inflammation and protect tissue after SCI in animal models. Cell transplantation, immunomodulatory peptides and supplements are promising strategies. These strategies aim to modulate the immune response. This modulation provides hope for finding effective therapies to neutralize the harmful effects of inflammation after SCI. The review emphasizes the need for more basic research. This research is needed to validate findings before clinical application. Thorough research will help establish better and more effective treatments for spinal cord injuries.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Different animal models of spinal cord injury, clinical studies with patients

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Various cell types like Schwann cells, olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), and mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can modulate inflammation after SCI, promoting neuroprotection and regeneration in animal models.
2
Immunomodulatory peptides, such as Glutathione Monoethyl Ester (GME) and Monocyte Locomotion Inhibitory Factor (MLIF), demonstrate neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in SCI models.
3
Supplements like vitamins C and E, zinc, selenium, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids, along with probiotics, show potential in reducing inflammation and promoting recovery after SCI, based on both animal and human studies.

Research Summary

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant health problem lacking fully effective treatments. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies are being evaluated to improve neurological recovery. The complexity of events after injury, particularly the inflammatory response, has made it challenging to establish effective therapies for neuroprotection or neuronal regeneration. The review concludes that while cell therapy, immunomodulatory peptides, and supplements offer hope as modulators of the immune response, more research is needed to achieve better results that can be extended to clinical applications.

Practical Implications

Cell-Based Therapies

Further research on specific cell types (SCs, OECs, BMSCs) to enhance neuroprotection and regeneration after SCI.

Peptide-Based Interventions

Development and testing of immunomodulatory peptides like MLIF and A91 to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Nutritional Strategies

Clinical trials to validate the use of supplements (vitamins, minerals, omega-3s) and probiotics for managing inflammation and promoting recovery in SCI patients.

Study Limitations

1
Variability in animal models and injury severity affects the consistency of results.
2
Lack of comprehensive understanding of the specific mechanisms of action for cell therapies, peptides, and supplements.
3
Limited clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of these therapeutic strategies in human SCI patients.

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