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Hey G, Willman M, Patel A, Goutnik M, Willman J, Lucke-Wold B. Stem Cell Scaffolds for the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury-A Review. BIOMECHANICS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 3:322-342. [PMID: 37664542 PMCID: PMC10469078 DOI: 10.3390/biomechanics3030028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a profoundly debilitating yet common central nervous system condition resulting in significant morbidity and mortality rates. Major causes of SCI encompass traumatic incidences such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, and sports injuries. Present treatment strategies for SCI aim to improve and enhance neurologic functionality. The ability for neural stem cells (NSCs) to differentiate into diverse neural and glial cell precursors has stimulated the investigation of stem cell scaffolds as potential therapeutics for SCI. Various scaffolding modalities including composite materials, natural polymers, synthetic polymers, and hydrogels have been explored. However, most trials remain largely in the preclinical stage, emphasizing the need to further develop and refine these treatment strategies before clinical implementation. In this review, we delve into the physiological processes that underpin NSC differentiation, including substrates and signaling pathways required for axonal regrowth post-injury, and provide an overview of current and emerging stem cell scaffolding platforms for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Hey
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Matthew Willman
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Aashay Patel
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Michael Goutnik
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Jonathan Willman
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Brandon Lucke-Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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Huang F, Chen T, Chang J, Zhang C, Liao F, Wu L, Wang W, Yin Z. A conductive dual-network hydrogel composed of oxidized dextran and hyaluronic-hydrazide as BDNF delivery systems for potential spinal cord injury repair. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 167:434-445. [PMID: 33278434 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.11.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) often causes neuronal death and axonal degeneration. In this study, we report a new strategy for preparing injectable and conductive polysaccharides-based hydrogels that could sustainably deliver brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) for SCI repair. We used poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) as a carrier to encapsulate BDNF. The resulting microspheres were then modified with tannic acid (TA). The polysaccharides-based hydrogel composed of oxidized dextran (Dex) and hyaluronic acid-hydrazide (HA) was mixed with TA-modified microspheres to form the ultimate BDNF@TA-PLGA/Dex-HA hydrogel. Our results showed that the hydrogel had properties similar to natural spinal cords. Specifically, the hydrogel had soft mechanical properties and high electrical conductivity. The cross-sectional morphology of the hydrogel exhibited a continuous and porous structure. The swelling and degradation behaviors of the Dex-HA hydrogel in vitro indicated the incorporation of TA into hydrogel matrix could improve the stability of the hydrogel matrix as well as extend the release time of BDNF from the matrix. Furthermore, results from immunostaining and real-time PCR demonstrated that BDNF@TA-PLGA/Dex-HA hydrogel could promote the differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) into neurons and inhibit astrocyte differentiation in vitro. These results show the great potential of this hydrogel as a biomimetic material in SCI regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Taiying Chen
- Department of Liver Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Chang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Faxue Liao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Linwei Wu
- Department of Liver Transplantation, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Wenbin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
| | - Zongsheng Yin
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Elnaggar MA, El-Fawal HAN, Allam NK. Biocompatible PCL-nanofibers scaffold with immobilized fibronectin and laminin for neuronal tissue regeneration. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 119:111550. [PMID: 33321614 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in regenerative medicine have given hope in overcoming and rehabilitating complex medical conditions. In this regard, the biopolymer poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) may be a promising candidate for tissue regeneration, despite lacking the essential bioactivity. The present study used PCL nanofibers (NFs) scaffold decorated with the extracellular matrix proteins fibronectin and laminin combined for neuronal regeneration. The potential for the dual proteins to support neuronal cells and promote axonal growth was investigated. Two NFs scaffolds were produced with PLC concentrations of 12% or 15%. Under scanning electron microscopy, both scaffolds evidenced uniform diameter distribution in the range of 358 nm and 887 nm, respectively, with >80% porosity. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) test confirmed that the fabricated NFs mats had a high surface area, especially for the 12% NFs with 652 m2/g compared to 254 m2/g for the 15% NFs. The proteins of interest were successfully conjugated to the 12% PCL scaffold through chemical carbodiimide reaction as confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The addition of fibronectin and laminin together was shown to be the most favorable for cellular attachment and elongation of neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells compared to other formulations. Light microscopy revealed longer neurite outgrowth, higher cellular projected area, and lower shape index for the cells cultured on the combined proteins conjugated fibers, indicating enhanced cellular spread on the scaffold. This preliminary study suggests that PCL nanoscaffolding conjugated with matrix proteins can support neuronal cell viability and neurite growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manar A Elnaggar
- Nanotechnology Program, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Hassan A N El-Fawal
- Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Nageh K Allam
- Nanotechnology Program, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt; Energy Materials Laboratory, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt.
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Sharif S, Ali SM. "I Felt the Ball"-The Future of Spine Injury Recovery. World Neurosurg 2020; 140:602-613. [PMID: 32446984 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.05.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) has no cure and individuals with SCI become dependent on others for life. After injury, the signals below the lesion are disrupted, but the brain still produces motor commands. Researchers have bypassed this obstacle, which has given rise to the brain-machine interface (BMI). BMI devices are implanted in the brain or spinal cord, where they decode and send signals beyond the injured segment. Experiments were initially conducted on animals, with favorable results. BMIs are classified according to their type, function, signal generation, and so on. Because of invasiveness, their long-term use is questionable, because of infections and complications. The use of an implantable epidural array in patients with chronic SCI showed that participants were able to walk with the help of a stimulator, and after months of training, they were able to walk with the stimulator turned off. Another innovation is a robotic suit for paraplegics and tetraplegics that supports the movement of limbs. The research on stem cells has not shown favorable results. In future, one of these cutting-edge technologies will prevail over the other, but BMI seems to have the upper hand. The future of BMI with fusion of robotics and artificial intelligence is promising for patients with chronic SCI. These modern devices need to be less invasive, biocompatible, easily programmable, portable, and cost-effective. After these hurdles are overcome, the devices may become the mainstay of potential rehabilitation therapy for partial recovery. The time may come when all patients with severe SCI are told "You will walk again."
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Affiliation(s)
- Salman Sharif
- Department of Neurosurgery, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Syed Maroof Ali
- Department of Neurosurgery, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
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Repair strategies for traumatic spinal cord injury, with special emphasis on novel biomaterial-based approaches. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2020; 176:252-260. [PMID: 31982183 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
As a part of the central nervous system (CNS), the adult mammalian spinal cord displays only very poor ability for self-repair in response to traumatic lesions, which mostly lead to more or less severe, life-long disability. While even adult CNS neurons have a certain plastic potential, their intrinsic regenerative capacity highly varies among different neuronal populations and in the end, regeneration is almost completely inhibited due to extrinsic factors such as glial scar and cystic cavity formation, excessive and persistent inflammation, presence of various inhibitory molecules, and absence of trophic support and of a growth-supportive extracellular matrix structure. In recent years, a number of experimental animal models have been developed to overcome these obstacles. Since all those studies based on a single approach have yielded only relatively modest functional recovery, it is now consensus that different therapeutic approaches will have to be combined to synergistically overcome the multiple barriers to CNS regeneration, especially in humans. In this review, we particularly emphasize the hope raised by the development of novel, implantable biomaterials that should favor the reconstruction of the damaged nervous tissue, and ultimately allow for functional recovery of sensorimotor functions. Since human spinal cord injury pathology depends on the vertebral level and the severity of the traumatic impact, and since the timing of application of the different therapeutic approaches appears very important, we argue that every case will necessitate individual evaluation, and specific adaptation of therapeutic strategies.
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Sun Y, Yang C, Zhu X, Wang JJ, Liu XY, Yang XP, An XW, Liang J, Dong HJ, Jiang W, Chen C, Wang ZG, Sun HT, Tu Y, Zhang S, Chen F, Li XH. 3D printing collagen/chitosan scaffold ameliorated axon regeneration and neurological recovery after spinal cord injury. J Biomed Mater Res A 2019; 107:1898-1908. [PMID: 30903675 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a disaster that can cause severe motor, sensory, and functional disorders. Implanting biomaterials have been regarded as hopeful strategies to restore neurological function. However, no optimized scaffold has been available. In this study, a novel 3D printing technology was used to fabricate the scaffold with designed structure. The composite biomaterials of collagen and chitosan were also adopted to balance both compatibility and strength. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a T8 complete-transection SCI model. Scaffolds of C/C (collagen/chitosan scaffold with freeze-drying technology) or 3D-C/C (collagen/chitosan scaffold with 3D printing technology) were implanted into the lesion. Compared with SCI or C/C group, 3D-C/C implants significantly promoted locomotor function with the elevation in Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) score and angle of inclined plane. Decreased latency and increased amplitude were observed both in motor-evoked potential and somatosensory-evoked potential in 3D-C/C group compared with SCI or C/C group, which further demonstrated the improvement of neurological recovery. Fiber tracking of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) showed the most fibers traversing the lesion in 3D-C/C group. Meanwhile, we observed that the correlations between the locomotor (BBB score or angle of inclined plane) and the DTI parameters (fractional anisotropy values) were positive. Although C/C implants markedly enhanced biotin dextran amine (BDA)-positive neural profiles compared with SCI group, rats implanted with 3D-C/C scaffold displayed the largest degree of BDA profiles regeneration. Collectively, our 3D-C/C scaffolds demonstrated significant therapeutic effects on rat complete-transected spinal cord model, which provides a promising and innovative therapeutic approach for SCI. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1898-1908, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Xu Zhu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Jing-Jing Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Xiao-Yin Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Xi-Ping Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Xing-Wei An
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jun Liang
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Hua-Jiang Dong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chong Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Zhen-Guo Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Hong-Tao Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Yue Tu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Sai Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China.,Postdoctoral Workstation, College of Basic Medicine, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Pingjin Hospital Brain Center, Logistics University of PAPF, Tianjin 300162, China.,Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
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Nejati-Koshki K, Mortazavi Y, Pilehvar-Soltanahmadi Y, Sheoran S, Zarghami N. An update on application of nanotechnology and stem cells in spinal cord injury regeneration. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 90:85-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
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Alam M, Rodrigues W, Pham BN, Thakor NV. Brain-machine interface facilitated neurorehabilitation via spinal stimulation after spinal cord injury: Recent progress and future perspectives. Brain Res 2016; 1646:25-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.05.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Revised: 04/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Li G, Che MT, Zhang K, Qin LN, Zhang YT, Chen RQ, Rong LM, Liu S, Ding Y, Shen HY, Long SM, Wu JL, Ling EA, Zeng YS. Graft of the NT-3 persistent delivery gelatin sponge scaffold promotes axon regeneration, attenuates inflammation, and induces cell migration in rat and canine with spinal cord injury. Biomaterials 2016; 83:233-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.11.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Pawar K, Prang P, Müller R, Caioni M, Bogdahn U, Kunz W, Weidner N. Intrinsic and extrinsic determinants of central nervous system axon outgrowth into alginate-based anisotropic hydrogels. Acta Biomater 2015; 27:131-139. [PMID: 26310676 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2015.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Appropriate target reinnervation and functional recovery after spinal cord injury depend on longitudinally directed regrowth of injured axons. Anisotropic alginate-based capillary hydrogels (ACH) support peripheral nervous system derived axon growth, which is accompanied by glial supporting cell migration into the ACH. The aim of the present study was to analyze central nervous system (CNS) derived (entorhinal cortex, spinal cord slice cultures) axon regrowth into ACH containing linearly aligned capillaries of defined capillary sizes without and with gelatin constituent. Anisotropic ACH were prepared by ionotropic gel formation using Ba(2+), Cu(2+), Sr(2+), or Zn(2+) ions resulting in gels with average capillary diameters of 11, 13, 29, and 89μm, respectively. Postnatal rat entorhinal cortex or spinal cord slice cultures were placed on top of 500μm thick ACH. Seven days later axon growth and astroglial migration into the ACH were determined. Axon density within capillaries correlated positively with increasing capillary diameters, whereas longitudinally oriented axon outgrowth diminished with increasing capillary diameter. Axons growing into the hydrogels were always accompanied by astrocytes strongly suggesting that respective cells are required to mediate CNS axon elongation into ACH. Overall, midsize capillary diameter ACH appeared to be the best compromise between axon density and orientation. Taken together, ACH promote CNS axon ingrowth, which is determined by the capillary diameter and migration of slice culture derived astroglia into the hydrogel. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Biomaterials are investigated as therapeutic tools to bridge irreversible lesions following traumatic spinal cord injury. The goal is to develop biomaterials, which promote longitudinally oriented regeneration of as many injured axons as possible as prerequisite for substantial functional recovery. Optimal parameters of the biomaterial have yet to be defined. In the present study we show that increasing capillary diameters within such hydrogels enhanced central nervous system axon regeneration at the expense of longitudinal orientation. Axon ingrowth into the hydrogels was only observed in the presence of glial supporting cells, namely astrocytes. This suggests that alginate-based hydrogels need to be colonized with respective cells in order to facilitate axon ingrowth.
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Pawar K, Cummings BJ, Thomas A, Shea LD, Levine A, Pfaff S, Anderson AJ. Biomaterial bridges enable regeneration and re-entry of corticospinal tract axons into the caudal spinal cord after SCI: Association with recovery of forelimb function. Biomaterials 2015; 65:1-12. [PMID: 26134079 PMCID: PMC4523232 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Severed axon tracts fail to exhibit robust or spontaneous regeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI). Regeneration failure reflects a combination of factors, including the growth state of neuronal cell bodies and the regeneration-inhibitory environment of the central nervous system. However, while spared circuitry can be retrained, target reinnervation depends on longitudinally directed regeneration of transected axons. This study describes a biodegradable implant using poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLG) bridges as a carrier scaffold to support regeneration after injury. In order to detect regeneration of descending neuronal tracts into the bridge, and beyond into intact caudal parenchyma, we developed a mouse cervical implantation model and employed Crym:GFP transgenic mice. Characterization of Crym:GFP mice revealed that descending tracts, including the corticospinal tract, were labeled by green fluorescent protein (GFP), while ascending sensory neurons and fibers were not. Robust co-localization between GFP and neurofilament-200 (NF-200) as well as GFP and GAP-43 was observed at both the rostral and caudal bridge/tissue interface. No evidence of similar regeneration was observed in mice that received gelfoam at the lesion site as controls. Minimal co-localization between GFP reporter labeling and macrophage markers was observed. Taken together, these data suggest that axons originating from descending fiber tracts regenerated, entered into the PLG bridge at the rostral margin, continued through the bridge site, and exited to re-enter host tissue at the caudal edge of the intact bridge. Finally, regeneration through implanted bridges was associated with a reduction in ipsilateral forelimb errors on a horizontal ladder task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Pawar
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (iMIND), University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Brian J Cummings
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (iMIND), University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Aline Thomas
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Lonnie D Shea
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Aileen J Anderson
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (iMIND), University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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Alvarez-Mejia L, Morales J, Cruz GJ, Olayo MG, Olayo R, Díaz-Ruíz A, Ríos C, Mondragón-Lozano R, Sánchez-Torres S, Morales-Guadarrama A, Fabela-Sánchez O, Salgado-Ceballos H. Functional recovery in spinal cord injured rats using polypyrrole/iodine implants and treadmill training. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2015; 26:209. [PMID: 26169188 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-015-5541-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there is no universally accepted treatment for traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI), a pathology that can cause paraplegia or quadriplegia. Due to the complexity of TSCI, more than one therapeutic strategy may be necessary to regain lost functions. Therefore, the present study proposes the use of implants of mesoparticles (MPs) of polypyrrole/iodine (PPy/I) synthesized by plasma for neuroprotection promotion and functional recovery in combination with treadmill training (TT) for neuroplasticity promotion and maintenance of muscle tone. PPy/I films were synthesized by plasma and pulverized to obtain MPs. Rats with a TSCI produced by the NYU impactor were divided into four groups: Vehicle (saline solution); MPs (PPy/I implant); Vehicle-TT (saline solution + TT); and MPs-TT (PPy/I implant + TT). The vehicle or MPs (30 μL) were injected into the lesion site 48 h after a TSCI. Four days later, TT was carried out 5 days a week for 2 months. Functional recovery was evaluated weekly using the BBB motor scale for 9 weeks and tissue protection using histological and morphometric analysis thereafter. Although the MPs of PPy/I increased nerve tissue preservation (P = 0.03) and promoted functional recovery (P = 0.015), combination with TT did not produce better neuroprotection, but significantly improved functional results (P = 0.000) when comparing with the vehicle group. So, use these therapeutic strategies by separately could stimulate specific mechanisms of neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, but when using together they could mainly potentiate different mechanisms of neuronal plasticity in the preserved spinal cord tissue after a TSCI and produce a significant functional recovery. The implant of mesoparticles of polypyrrole/iodine into the injured spinal cord displayed good integration into the nervous tissue without a response of rejection, as well as an increased in the amount of preserved tissue and a better functional recovery than the group without transplant after a traumatic spinal cord injury by contusion in rats. The relevance of the present results is that polypyrrole/iodine implants were synthesized by plasma instead by conventional chemical or electrochemical methods. Synthesis by plasma modifies physicochemical properties of polypyrrole/iodine implants, which can be responsible of the histological response and functional results. Furthermore, no additional molecules or trophic factors or cells were added to the implant for obtain such results. Even more, when the implant was used together with physical rehabilitation, better functional recovery was obtained than that observed when these strategies were used by separately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Alvarez-Mejia
- Department of Electric Engineering, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, Apdo. Postal 55-534, CP 09340, Mexico, DF, Mexico
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Onuma-Ukegawa M, Bhatt K, Hirai T, Kaburagi H, Sotome S, Wakabayashi Y, Ichinose S, Shinomiya K, Okawa A, Enomoto M. Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Combined with a Honeycomb Collagen Sponge Facilitate Neurite Elongation in Vitro and Neural Restoration in the Hemisected Rat Spinal Cord. Cell Transplant 2015; 24:1283-97. [DOI: 10.3727/096368914x682134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, researchers and clinicians have reported that transplantation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) promotes functional recovery after brain or spinal cord injury (SCI). However, an appropriate scaffold designed for the injured spinal cord is needed to enhance the survival of transplanted BMSCs and to promote nerve regeneration. We previously tested a honeycomb collagen sponge (HC), which when applied to the transected spinal cord allowed bridging of the gap with nerve fibers. In this study, we examined whether the HC implant combined with rat BMSCs increases nerve regeneration in vitro and enhances functional recovery in vivo. We first evaluated the neurite outgrowth of rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants cultured on HC with or without BMSCs in vitro. Regeneration of neurites from the DRGs was increased by BMSCs combined with HC scaffolds. In the in vivo study, 3-mm-long HC scaffolds with or without BMSCs were implanted into the hemisected rat thoracic spinal cord. Four weeks after the procedure, rats implanted with HC scaffolds containing BMSCs displayed better motor and sensory recovery than those implanted with HC scaffolds only. Histologically, more CGRP-positive sensory fibers at the implanted site and 5-HT-positive serotonergic fibers contralateral to the implanted site were observed in spinal cords receiving BMSCs. Furthermore, more rubrospinal neurons projected distally to the HC implant containing BMSCs. Our study indicates that the application of BMSCs in a HC scaffold in the injured spinal cord directly promoted sensory nerve and rubrospinal tract regeneration, thus resulting in functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madoka Onuma-Ukegawa
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kush Bhatt
- Imperial College, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Exchange Program, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Hirai
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Kaburagi
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sotome
- Department of Orthopaedic Research and Development, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Wakabayashi
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shizuko Ichinose
- Instrumental Analysis Research Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenichi Shinomiya
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Okawa
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Enomoto
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Hyperbaric Medical Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Estrada V, Müller HW. Spinal cord injury - there is not just one way of treating it. F1000PRIME REPORTS 2014; 6:84. [PMID: 25343041 PMCID: PMC4166939 DOI: 10.12703/p6-84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In the last century, research in the field of spinal cord trauma has brought insightful knowledge which has led to a detailed understanding of mechanisms that are involved in injury- and recovery-related processes. The quest for a cure for the yet generally incurable condition as well as the exponential rise in gained information has brought about the development of numerous treatment approaches while at the same time the abundance of data has become quite unmanageable. Owing to an enormous amount of preclinical therapeutic approaches, this report highlights important trends rather than specific treatment strategies. We focus on current advances in the treatment of spinal cord injury and want to further draw attention to arising problems in spinal cord injury (SCI) research and discuss possible solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Estrada
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Hans Werner Müller
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
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15
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Du BL, Zeng X, Ma YH, Lai BQ, Wang JM, Ling EA, Wu JL, Zeng YS. Graft of the gelatin sponge scaffold containing genetically-modified neural stem cells promotes cell differentiation, axon regeneration, and functional recovery in rat with spinal cord transection. J Biomed Mater Res A 2014; 103:1533-45. [DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.35290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Ling Du
- Department of Histology and Embryology; Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Xiang Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering Ministry of Education; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Yuan-Huan Ma
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering Ministry of Education; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Bi-Qin Lai
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering Ministry of Education; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Jun-Mei Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology; Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Eng-Ang Ling
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine; National University of Singapore; Singapore Singapore
| | - Jin-Lang Wu
- Department of Electron Microscope, Zhongshan School of Medicine; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Yuan-Shan Zeng
- Department of Histology and Embryology; Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering Ministry of Education; Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
- Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou Guangdong China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration; Nantong Jiangsu China
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16
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Chen J, Zhang Z, Liu J, Zhou R, Zheng X, Chen T, Wang L, Huang M, Yang C, Li Z, Yang C, Bai X, Jin D. Acellular spinal cord scaffold seeded with bone marrow stromal cells protects tissue and promotes functional recovery in spinal cord-injured rats. J Neurosci Res 2013; 92:307-17. [PMID: 24375695 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Therapy using scaffolds seeded with stem cells plays an important role in repair of spinal cord injury (SCI), with the transplanted cells differentiating into nerve cells to replace the lost tissue while releasing neurotrophic factors that contribute to repair following SCI and enhance the function of the damaged nervous system. The present study investigated the ability to extend the survival time of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) to restore the damaged spinal cord and improve functional recovery by grafting acellular spinal cord (ASC) scaffold seeded or not with BMSCs in a rat model of acute hemisected SCI. BBB scores revealed that treatment with BMSCs seeded into ASC scaffold led to an obvious improvement in motor function recovery compared with treatment with ASC scaffold alone or untreated controls. This improvement was evident at 2 and 8 weeks after surgery (P < 0.05). When BMSCs labeled with 5-bromodeoxyuridine were implanted together with ASC scaffold into the injured sites, they differentiated into glial cells, and some BMSCs could be observed within the graft by immunofluorescent staining at 8 weeks after implantation. Evaluation of caspase-3 activation suggested that the graft group was able to reduce apoptosis compared with SCI alone at 8 weeks after operation (P < 0.05). This study suggests that ASC scaffolds have the ability to enhance BMSC survival and improve differentiation and could also reduce native damaged nerve tissue apoptosis, thus protecting host tissue as well as improving functional recovery after implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guagnzhou, China; Orthopaedic Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
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17
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Tuinstra HM, Margul DJ, Goodman AG, Boehler RM, Holland SJ, Zelivyanskaya ML, Cummings BJ, Anderson AJ, Shea LD. Long-term characterization of axon regeneration and matrix changes using multiple channel bridges for spinal cord regeneration. Tissue Eng Part A 2013; 20:1027-37. [PMID: 24168314 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2013.0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in loss of sensory and motor function below the level of injury and has limited available therapies. The host response to SCI is typified by limited endogenous repair, and biomaterial bridges offer the potential to alter the microenvironment to promote regeneration. Porous multiple channel bridges implanted into the injury provide stability to limit secondary damage and support cell infiltration that limits cavity formation. At the same time, the channels provide a path that physically directs axon growth across the injury. Using a rat spinal cord hemisection injury model, we investigated the dynamics of axon growth, myelination, and scar formation within and around the bridge in vivo for 6 months, at which time the bridge has fully degraded. Axons grew into and through the channels, and the density increased overtime, resulting in the greatest axon density at 6 months postimplantation, despite complete degradation of the bridge by that time point. Furthermore, the persistence of these axons contrasts with reports of axonal dieback in other models and is consistent with axon stability resulting from some degree of connectivity. Immunostaining of axons revealed both motor and sensory origins of the axons found in the channels of the bridge. Extensive myelination was observed throughout the bridge at 6 months, with centrally located and peripheral channels seemingly myelinated by oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells, respectively. Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan deposition was restricted to the edges of the bridge, was greatest at 1 week, and significantly decreased by 6 weeks. The dynamics of collagen I and IV, laminin, and fibronectin deposition varied with time. These studies demonstrate that the bridge structure can support substantial long-term axon growth and myelination with limited scar formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Tuinstra
- 1 Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University , Evanston, Illinois
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