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Ye J, Pan X, Wen Z, Wu T, Jin Y, Ji S, Zhang X, Ma Y, Liu W, Teng C, Tang L, Wei W. Injectable conductive hydrogel remodeling microenvironment and mimicking neuroelectric signal transmission after spinal cord injury. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 668:646-657. [PMID: 38696992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.04.209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Severe spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to dysregulated neuroinflammation and cell apoptosis, resulting in axonal die-back and the loss of neuroelectric signal transmission. While biocompatible hydrogels are commonly used in SCI repair, they lack the capacity to support neuroelectric transmission. To overcome this limitation, we developed an injectable silk fibroin/ionic liquid (SFMA@IL) conductive hydrogel to assist neuroelectric signal transmission after SCI in this study. The hydrogel can form rapidly in situ under ultraviolet (UV) light. The mechanical supporting and neuro-regenerating properties are provided by silk fibroin (SF), while the conductive capability is provided by the designed ionic liquid (IL). SFMA@IL showed attractive features for SCI repair, such as anti-swelling, conductivity, and injectability. In vivo, SFMA@IL hydrogel used in rats with complete transection injuries was found to remodel the microenvironment, reduce inflammation, and facilitate neuro-fiber outgrowth. The hydrogel also led to a notable decrease in cell apoptosis and the achievement of scar-free wound healing, which saved 45.6 ± 10.8 % of spinal cord tissue in SFMA@IL grafting. Electrophysiological studies in rats with complete transection SCI confirmed SFMA@IL's ability to support sensory neuroelectric transmission, providing strong evidence for its signal transmission function. These findings provide new insights for the development of effective SCI treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjia Ye
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Xihao Pan
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, China; Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China 310000
| | - Zhengfa Wen
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Tianxin Wu
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Yuting Jin
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Shunxian Ji
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Xianzhu Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yuanzhu Ma
- Department of Automation, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Chong Teng
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China.
| | - Longguang Tang
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China.
| | - Wei Wei
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China.
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Zhou G, Pang S, Li Y, Gao J. Progress in the generation of spinal cord organoids over the past decade and future perspectives. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1013-1019. [PMID: 37862203 PMCID: PMC10749595 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385280] [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: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord organoids are three-dimensional tissues derived from stem cells that recapitulate the primary morphological and functional characteristics of the spinal cord in vivo. As emerging bioengineering methods have led to the optimization of cell culture protocols, spinal cord organoids technology has made remarkable advancements in the past decade. Our literature search found that current spinal cord organoids do not only dynamically simulate neural tube formation but also exhibit diverse cytoarchitecture along the dorsal-ventral and rostral-caudal axes. Moreover, fused organoids that integrate motor neurons and other regionally specific organoids exhibit intricate neural circuits that allows for functional assessment. These qualities make spinal cord organoids valuable tools for disease modeling, drug screening, and tissue regeneration. By utilizing this emergent technology, researchers have made significant progress in investigating the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets of spinal cord diseases. However, at present, spinal cord organoid technology remains in its infancy and has not been widely applied in translational medicine. Establishment of the next generation of spinal cord organoids will depend on good manufacturing practice standards and needs to focus on diverse cell phenotypes and electrophysiological functionality evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Siyuan Pang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongning Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of International Medical Service, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Lu B, Wei L, Shi G, Du J. Nanotherapeutics for Alleviating Anesthesia-Associated Complications. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308241. [PMID: 38342603 PMCID: PMC11022745 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Current management of anesthesia-associated complications falls short in terms of both efficacy and safety. Nanomaterials with versatile properties and unique nano-bio interactions hold substantial promise as therapeutics for addressing these complications. This review conducts a thorough examination of the existing nanotherapeutics and highlights the strategies for developing prospective nanomedicines to mitigate anesthetics-related toxicity. Initially, general, regional, and local anesthesia along with the commonly used anesthetics and related prevalent side effects are introduced. Furthermore, employing nanotechnology to prevent and alleviate the complications of anesthetics is systematically demonstrated from three aspects, that is, developing 1) safe nano-formulization for anesthetics; 2) nano-antidotes to sequester overdosed anesthetics and alter their pharmacokinetics; 3) nanomedicines with pharmacodynamic activities to treat anesthetics toxicity. Finally, the prospects and challenges facing the clinical translation of nanotherapeutics for anesthesia-related complications are discussed. This work provides a comprehensive roadmap for developing effective nanotherapeutics to prevent and mitigate anesthesia-associated toxicity, which can potentially revolutionize the management of anesthesia complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Lu
- Department of AnesthesiologyThird Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityShanxi Bethune HospitalShanxi Academy of Medical SciencesTongji Shanxi HospitalTaiyuan030032China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanShanxi Province030001China
| | - Ling Wei
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital Center Surgery DepartmentShanxi Academy of Medical SciencesTongji Shanxi HospitalThird Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuan030032China
| | - Gaoxiang Shi
- Department of AnesthesiologyThird Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityShanxi Bethune HospitalShanxi Academy of Medical SciencesTongji Shanxi HospitalTaiyuan030032China
| | - Jiangfeng Du
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanShanxi Province030001China
- Department of Medical ImagingShanxi Key Laboratory of Intelligent Imaging and NanomedicineFirst Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanShanxi Province030001China
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Wang W, Yong J, Marciano P, O’Hare Doig R, Mao G, Clark J. The Translation of Nanomedicines in the Contexts of Spinal Cord Injury and Repair. Cells 2024; 13:569. [PMID: 38607008 PMCID: PMC11011097 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THIS REVIEW Manipulating or re-engineering the damaged human spinal cord to achieve neuro-recovery is one of the foremost challenges of modern science. Addressing the restricted permission of neural cells and topographically organised neural tissue for self-renewal and spontaneous regeneration, respectively, is not straightforward, as exemplified by rare instances of translational success. This review assembles an understanding of advances in nanomedicine for spinal cord injury (SCI) and related clinical indications of relevance to attempts to design, engineer, and target nanotechnologies to multiple molecular networks. RECENT FINDINGS Recent research provides a new understanding of the health benefits and regulatory landscape of nanomedicines based on a background of advances in mRNA-based nanocarrier vaccines and quantum dot-based optical imaging. In relation to spinal cord pathology, the extant literature details promising advances in nanoneuropharmacology and regenerative medicine that inform the present understanding of the nanoparticle (NP) biocompatibility-neurotoxicity relationship. In this review, the conceptual bases of nanotechnology and nanomaterial chemistry covering organic and inorganic particles of sizes generally less than 100 nm in diameter will be addressed. Regarding the centrally active nanotechnologies selected for this review, attention is paid to NP physico-chemistry, functionalisation, delivery, biocompatibility, biodistribution, toxicology, and key molecular targets and biological effects intrinsic to and beyond the spinal cord parenchyma. SUMMARY The advance of nanotechnologies for the treatment of refractory spinal cord pathologies requires an in-depth understanding of neurobiological and topographical principles and a consideration of additional complexities involving the research's translational and regulatory landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia; (W.W.); (J.Y.); (G.M.)
| | - Joel Yong
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia; (W.W.); (J.Y.); (G.M.)
| | - Paul Marciano
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (P.M.); (R.O.D.)
- Neil Sachse Centre for Spinal Cord Research, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Ryan O’Hare Doig
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (P.M.); (R.O.D.)
- Neil Sachse Centre for Spinal Cord Research, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Guangzhao Mao
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia; (W.W.); (J.Y.); (G.M.)
| | - Jillian Clark
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (P.M.); (R.O.D.)
- Neil Sachse Centre for Spinal Cord Research, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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Zhou G, Han S, Li Z, Li Y, Gao J. Comprehensive and Visualized Analysis of Interventional Clinical Trials of Spinal Cord Injury in the Past Two Decades: A Bibliometric Study. World Neurosurg 2024; 182:e546-e558. [PMID: 38052362 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.11.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to provide a bibliometric analysis of reported clinical trials of interventional spinal cord injury (SCI) and present the current status, global trends, and scholars' knowledge in this field. METHODS Data were obtained from PubMed and Web of Science (WOS) Core Collection. A literature screening process was conducted to select reports of interventional SCI clinical trials. Qualitative and quantitative analysis was performed based on information from the WOS database. Co-occurrence analysis of keywords, collaboration analysis, and co-citation analysis were performed using VOSviewer. RESULTS A total of 849 articles were selected for analysis. Therapeutic strategies in the articles were classified into 10 subgroups. Locomotor training, local complication-related treatments, and neuromodulation are the top 3 subgroups. Spinal Cord was the most productive and most frequently cited journal in SCI clinical trials. The most productive country, institution, and author are the United States, the University of Miami, and Harvey LA, respectively. The collaboration network analysis shows that researchers and institutions from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia were the pivotal driving forces in this field. Spinal cord injury, rehabilitation, individuals, electrical stimulation, and exercise are the top 5 most frequent keywords. The co-citation analysis shows that the most frequently cited references are all international standards and guidelines of SCI clinical trials. CONCLUSIONS There is a broad research collaboration network, although it is distributed unevenly worldwide. International standards and guidelines are needed to conduct high-quality clinical trials in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyuan Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhimin Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongning Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China; Department of International Medical Service, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Chen T, Zhu J, Wang G, Sun J, Ma X, Tian L, Zhang M, Wang F, Yu Z. The global state of research in stem cells therapy for spinal cord injury (2003-2022): a visualized analysis. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1323383. [PMID: 38327844 PMCID: PMC10847251 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1323383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Our study aimed to visualize the global status and frontiers in stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury by using bibliometric methodology. Methods Publication citation information related to stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI) studies between 2003 and 2022 was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. For the visualized study, VOS viewer software and Graph Pad Prism 9.5 were used to perform bibliometric analysis of included data and publication number statistics in stem cell therapy for the SCI domain. Results A total of 6,686 publications were retrieved. The USA and China made the highest contributions to global research with the highest number of citations and link strength. The journal Experimental Neurology ranks as the top journal, combining the publication amount and bibliometrics results. The University of Toronto, based in Canada, was the first-ranking institution. The directions of the current study could be divided into five clusters. The research of Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine and Neurosciences Mechanism Research may be the emerging frontiers in this domain. Conclusion In summary, stem cell therapy for spinal cord injuries is poised for more valuable advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoyu Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, China
| | - Jiaying Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, China
| | - Jinlei Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, China
| | - Lijun Tian
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, China
| | - Meiling Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, 981st Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Joint Logistics Support Force, Chengde, China
| | - Fengyan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, 981st Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Joint Logistics Support Force, Chengde, China
| | - Ze Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, China
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Xu L, Zhao H, Yang Y, Xiong Y, Zhong W, Jiang G, Yu X. The application of stem cell sheets for neuronal regeneration after spinal cord injury: a systematic review of pre-clinical studies. Syst Rev 2023; 12:225. [PMID: 38037129 PMCID: PMC10688065 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02390-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stem cell sheet implantation offers a promising avenue for spinal cord injury (SCI) and is currently under investigation in pre-clinical in vivo studies. Nevertheless, a systematic review of the relevant literature is yet to be performed. Thus, this systematic review aims to explore the efficacy of stem cell sheet technology in treating SCI, as indicated by experimental animal model studies. METHODS We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Manuscripts that did not pertain to in vivo pre-clinical studies and those published in non-English languages were excluded. A risk assessment for bias was performed using the SYRCLE tool. Extracted data were synthesized only qualitatively because the data were not suitable for conducting the meta-analysis. RESULTS Among the 847 studies retrieved from electronic database searches, seven met the inclusion criteria. Six of these studies employed a complete transection model, while one utilized a compression model. Stem cell sources included bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth, and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells. In all included studies, stem cell sheet application significantly improved motor and sensory functional scores compared to intreated SCI rats. This functional recovery correlated with histological improvements at the injury site. All studies are at low risk of bias but certain domains were not reported by some or all of the studies. CONCLUSION The results of our systematic review suggest that stem cell sheets may be a feasible therapeutic approach for the treatment of SCI. Future research should be conducted on stem cell sheets in various animal models and types of SCI, and careful validation is necessary before translating stem cell sheets into clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luchun Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - He Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yongdong Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Xiong
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenqing Zhong
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Guozheng Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, People's Republic of China.
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Zeng CW. Advancing Spinal Cord Injury Treatment through Stem Cell Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Cell Types, Challenges, and Emerging Technologies in Regenerative Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14349. [PMID: 37762654 PMCID: PMC10532158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can lead to significant neurological deficits and lifelong disability, with far-reaching physical, psychological, and economic consequences for affected individuals and their families. Current treatments for SCIs are limited in their ability to restore function, and there is a pressing need for innovative therapeutic approaches. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising strategy to promote the regeneration and repair of damaged neural tissue following SCIs. This review article comprehensively discusses the potential of different stem cell types, such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs), in SCI treatment. We provide an in-depth analysis of the unique advantages and challenges associated with each stem cell type, as well as the latest advancements in the field. Furthermore, we address the critical challenges faced in stem cell therapy for SCIs, including safety concerns, ethical considerations, standardization of protocols, optimization of transplantation parameters, and the development of effective outcome measures. We also discuss the integration of novel technologies such as gene editing, biomaterials, and tissue engineering to enhance the therapeutic potential of stem cells. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among various stakeholders in the scientific community, including researchers, clinicians, bioengineers, industry partners, and patients, to overcome these challenges and realize the full potential of stem cell therapy for SCI patients. By fostering such collaborations and advancing our understanding of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine, we can pave the way for the development of groundbreaking therapies that improve the lives of those affected by SCIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wei Zeng
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
- Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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Wei M, Yang Z, Li S, Le W. Nanotherapeutic and Stem Cell Therapeutic Strategies in Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Promising Therapeutic Approach. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:611-626. [PMID: 36760756 PMCID: PMC9904216 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s395010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is characterized by progressive, disabling, and incurable neurological disorders with the massive loss of specific neurons. As one of the most promising potential therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases, stem cell therapy exerts beneficial effects through different mechanisms, such as direct replacement of damaged or lost cells, secretion of neurotrophic and growth factors, decreased neuroinflammation, and activation of endogenous stem cells. However, poor survival and differentiation rates of transplanted stem cells, insufficient homing ability, and difficulty tracking after transplantation limit their further clinical use. The rapid development of nanotechnology provides many promising nanomaterials for biomedical applications, which already have many applications in neurodegenerative disease treatment and seem to be able to compensate for some of the deficiencies in stem cell therapy, such as transport of stem cells/genes/drugs, regulating stem cell differentiation, and real-time tracking in stem cell therapy. Therefore, nanotherapeutic strategies combined with stem cell therapy is a promising therapeutic approach to treating neurodegenerative diseases. The present review systematically summarizes recent advances in stem cell therapeutics and nanotherapeutic strategies and highlights how they can be combined to improve therapeutic efficacy for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wei
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhaofei Yang
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Song Li
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weidong Le
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116021, People’s Republic of China,Institute of Neurology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, 610072, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Weidong Le, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116021, People’s Republic of China, Email
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Peng H, Liu Y, Xiao F, Zhang L, Li W, Wang B, Weng Z, Liu Y, Chen G. Research progress of hydrogels as delivery systems and scaffolds in the treatment of secondary spinal cord injury. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1111882. [PMID: 36741755 PMCID: PMC9889880 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1111882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary spinal cord injury (SSCI) is the second stage of spinal cord injury (SCI) and involves vasculature derangement, immune response, inflammatory response, and glial scar formation. Bioactive additives, such as drugs and cells, have been widely used to inhibit the progression of secondary spinal cord injury. However, the delivery and long-term retention of these additives remain a problem to be solved. In recent years, hydrogels have attracted much attention as a popular delivery system for loading cells and drugs for secondary spinal cord injury therapy. After implantation into the site of spinal cord injury, hydrogels can deliver bioactive additives in situ and induce the unidirectional growth of nerve cells as scaffolds. In addition, physical and chemical methods can endow hydrogels with new functions. In this review, we summarize the current state of various hydrogel delivery systems for secondary spinal cord injury treatment. Moreover, functional modifications of these hydrogels for better therapeutic effects are also discussed to provide a comprehensive insight into the application of hydrogels in the treatment of secondary spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haichuan Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Yongkang Liu
- The Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Fengfeng Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Limei Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Wenting Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Binghan Wang
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Zhijian Weng
- The Department of Neurosurgery, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Yu Liu
- The Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Yu Liu, ; Gang Chen,
| | - Gang Chen
- The Department of Neurosurgery, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Yu Liu, ; Gang Chen,
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Xia Y, Yang R, Wang H, Hou Y, Li Y, Zhu J, Xu F, Fu C. Biomaterials delivery strategies to repair spinal cord injury by modulating macrophage phenotypes. J Tissue Eng 2022; 13:20417314221143059. [PMID: 36600997 PMCID: PMC9806413 DOI: 10.1177/20417314221143059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes tremendous harm to a patient's physical, mental, and financial health. Moreover, recovery of SCI is affected by many factors, inflammation is one of the most important as it engulfs necrotic tissue and cells during the early stages of injury. However, excessive inflammation is not conducive to damage repair. Macrophages are classified into either blood-derived macrophages or resident microglia based on their origin, their effects on SCI being two-sided. Microglia first activate and recruit blood-derived macrophages at the site of injury-blood-borne macrophages being divided into pro-inflammatory M1 phenotypes and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Among them, M1 macrophages secrete inflammatory factors such as interleukin-β (IL-β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) at the injury site, which aggravates SCIs. M2 macrophages secrete IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and neurotrophic factors to inhibit the inflammatory response and inhibit neuronal apoptosis. Consequently, modulating phenotypic differentiation of macrophages appears to be a meaningful therapeutic target for the treatment of SCI. Biomaterials are widely used in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering due to their targeting and bio-histocompatibility. In this review, we describe the effects of biomaterials applied to modulate macrophage phenotypes on SCI recovery and provide an outlook.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliang Xia
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Ruohan Yang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of
Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Yulin Hou
- Depattment of Cardiology, Guangyuan
Central Hospital, Guangyuan, PR China
| | - Yuehong Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Jianshu Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China,Changfeng Fu, Department of Spine Surgery,
The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, PR
China.
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12
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Leemhuis E, Favieri F, Forte G, Pazzaglia M. Integrated Neuroregenerative Techniques for Plasticity of the Injured Spinal Cord. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102563. [PMID: 36289825 PMCID: PMC9599452 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
On the slow path to improving the life expectancy and quality of life of patients post spinal cord injury (SCI), recovery remains controversial. The potential role of the regenerative capacity of the nervous system has led to numerous attempts to stimulate the SCI to re-establish the interrupted sensorimotor loop and to understand its potential in the recovery process. Numerous resources are now available, from pharmacological to biomolecular approaches and from neuromodulation to sensorimotor rehabilitation interventions based on the use of various neural interfaces, exoskeletons, and virtual reality applications. The integration of existing resources seems to be a promising field of research, especially from the perspective of improving living conditions in the short to medium term. Goals such as reducing chronic forms of neuropathic pain, regaining control over certain physiological activities, and enhancing residual abilities are often more urgent than complete functional recovery. In this perspective article, we provide an overview of the latest interventions for the treatment of SCI through broad phases of injury rehabilitation. The underlying intention of this work is to introduce a spinal cord neuroplasticity-based multimodal approach to promote functional recovery and improve quality of life after SCI. Nonetheless, when used separately, biomolecular therapeutic approaches have been shown to have modest outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Leemhuis
- Dipartimento di Psicologia, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (M.P.)
| | - Francesca Favieri
- Dipartimento di Psicologia, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Forte
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Psicologia Dinamica, Clinica e Salute, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Mariella Pazzaglia
- Dipartimento di Psicologia, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (M.P.)
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13
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Zarepour A, Bal Öztürk A, Koyuncu Irmak D, Yaşayan G, Gökmen A, Karaöz E, Zarepour A, Zarrabi A, Mostafavi E. Combination Therapy Using Nanomaterials and Stem Cells to Treat Spinal Cord Injuries. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2022; 177:224-240. [PMID: 35850168 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As a part of the central nervous system, the spinal cord (SC) provides most of the communications between the brain and other parts of the body. Any damage to SC interrupts this communication, leading to serious problems, which may remain for the rest of their life. Due to its significant impact on patients' quality of life and its exorbitant medical costs, SC injury (SCI) is known as one of the most challengeable diseases in the world. Thus, it is critical to introduce highly translatable therapeutic platforms for SCI treatment. So far, different strategies have been introduced, among which utilizing various types of stem cells is one of the most interesting ones. The capability of stem cells to differentiate into several types of cell lines makes them promising candidates for the regeneration of injured tissues. One of the other interesting and novel strategies for SCI treatment is the application of nanomaterials, which could appear as a carrier for therapeutic agents or as a platform for culturing the cells. Combining these two approaches, stem cells and nanomaterials, could provide promising therapeutic strategies for SCI management. Accordingly, in this review we have summarized some of the recent advancements in which the applications of different types of stem cells and nanomaterials, alone and in combination forms, were evaluated for SCI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezou Zarepour
- Radiology Department, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ayça Bal Öztürk
- Department of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Institute of Health Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istinye University, Zeytinburnu, Turkey
| | | | - Gökçen Yaşayan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aylin Gökmen
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Bahcesehir University, Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Erdal Karaöz
- Liv Hospital, Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Manufacturing (LivMedCell), İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Atefeh Zarepour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Sariyer, Istanbul 34396, Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Sariyer, Istanbul 34396, Turkey.
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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14
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Guo K, Chang Y, Jin Y, Yuan H, Che P. circ-Ncam2 (mmu_circ_0006413) Participates in LPS-Induced Microglia Activation and Neuronal Apoptosis via the TLR4/NF-κB Pathway. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1738-1748. [PMID: 35687299 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) can cause permanent neurological deficits. Circular RNA Ncam2 (circ-Ncam2 also termed mmu_circ_0006413) has been reported to be overexpressed in SCI mouse models. However, the function of circ-Ncam2 in SCI has not been validated. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to activate mouse microglia (BV2 cells). Expression levels of circ-Ncam2 were determined by RT-qPCR. Relative protein levels were evaluated by western blotting. Cytokines were determined by ELISA. The regulatory mechanism of circ-Ncam2 was validated by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. Effects of LPS-induced BV2 cells on mouse neuronal (HT22 cells) viability, proliferation, and apoptosis were analyzed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), and flow cytometry assays. LPS stimulation promoted circ-Ncam2 expression in BV2 cells. Inhibition of circ-Ncam2 mitigated LPS-induced BV2 cell activation and inflammation. Mechanically, circ-Ncam2 adsorbed miR-544-3p to regulate TLR4 expression. Also, either miR-544-3p inhibition or TLR4 overexpression weakened circ-Ncam2 silencing-mediated effects on LPS-induced BV2 cell activation and inflammation. Furthermore, LPS-induced BV2 cells suppressed HT22 cell proliferation and promoted HT22 cell apoptosis through the circ-Ncam2/miR-544-3p axis. Importantly, circ-Ncam2 activated the NF-κB signaling via the miR-544-3p/TLR4axis. circ-Ncam2 silencing lowered LPS-induced microglia activation and neuronal apoptosis via blocking the TLR4/NF-κB pathway through acting as a miR-544-3p sponge, suggesting that circ-Ncam2 may be involved in secondary SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinan Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yulin Chang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yutao Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinan Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hong Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinan Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ping Che
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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15
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Novel Strategies for Spinal Cord Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094552. [PMID: 35562941 PMCID: PMC9102050 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is one of the most devastating lesions, as it can damage the continuity and conductivity of the central nervous system, resulting in complex pathophysiology. Encouraged by the advances in nanotechnology, stem cell biology, and materials science, researchers have proposed various interdisciplinary approaches for spinal cord regeneration. In this respect, the present review aims to explore the most recent developments in SCI treatment and spinal cord repair. Specifically, it briefly describes the characteristics of SCIs, followed by an extensive discussion on newly developed nanocarriers (e.g., metal-based, polymer-based, liposomes) for spinal cord delivery, relevant biomolecules (e.g., growth factors, exosomes) for SCI treatment, innovative cell therapies, and novel natural and synthetic biomaterial scaffolds for spinal cord regeneration.
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