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Cunha NSC, Malvea A, Sadat S, Ibrahim GM, Fehlings MG. Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury: A Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1456. [PMID: 37761417 PMCID: PMC10530251 DOI: 10.3390/children10091456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
A spinal cord injury (SCI) can be a devastating condition in children, with profound implications for their overall health and quality of life. In this review, we aim to provide a concise overview of the key aspects associated with SCIs in the pediatric population. Firstly, we discuss the etiology and epidemiology of SCIs in children, highlighting the diverse range of causes. We explore the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of the developing spinal cord that contribute to the specific challenges faced by pediatric patients. Next, we delve into the clinical presentation and diagnostic methods, emphasizing the importance of prompt and accurate diagnosis to facilitate appropriate interventions. Furthermore, we approach the multidisciplinary management of pediatric SCIs, encompassing acute medical care, surgical interventions, and ongoing supportive therapies. Finally, we explore emerging research as well as innovative therapies in the field, and we emphasize the need for continued advancements in understanding and treating SCIs in children to improve their functional independence and overall quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anahita Malvea
- Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada;
| | - Sarah Sadat
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada;
| | - George M. Ibrahim
- Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1E8, Canada;
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Neuroscience Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada;
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
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2
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Keikhaei R, Abdi E, Darvishi M, Ghotbeddin Z, Hamidabadi HG. Combined treatment of high-intensity interval training with neural stem cell generation on contusive model of spinal cord injury in rats. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3043. [PMID: 37165750 PMCID: PMC10338768 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to inflammation, axonal degeneration, and gliosis. A combined treatment of exercise and neural stem cells (NSC) has been proposed to improve neural repair. This study evaluated a combined treatment of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with NSC generation from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) on a contusive model of SCI in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vitro, rat ADSCs were isolated from the perinephric regions of Sprague-Dawley rats using enzymatic digestion. The ADSCs were transdifferentiated into neurospheres using B27, EGF, and bFGF. After production of NSC, they were labeled using green fluorescent protein (GFP). For the in vivo study, rats were divided into eight groups: control group, sham operation group, sham operation + HIIT group, sham operation + NSC group, SCI group, SCI + HIIT group, SCI + NSC group, and SCI/HIIT/NSC group. Laminectomy was carried out at the T12 level using the impactor system. HIIT was performed three times per week. To assess behavioral function, the Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor test and H-reflex was carried out once a week for 12 weeks. We examined glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), S100β, and NF200 expression. RESULTS NSC transplantation, HIIT and combined therapy with NSC transplantation, and the HIIT protocol improved locomotor function with decreased maximum H to maximum M reflexes (H/M ratio) and increased the Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan score. CONCLUSION Combined therapy in contused rats using the HIIT protocol and neurosphere-derived NSC transplantation improves functional and histological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Keikhaei
- School of MedicineTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Elahe Abdi
- Isfahan Neurosciences Research CenterIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
| | - Marzieh Darvishi
- Shefa Neuroscience Research CenterKhatam Alanbia HospitalTehranIran
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of MedicineIlam University of Medical SciencesIlamIran
| | - Zohreh Ghotbeddin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineShahid Chamran University of AhvazAhvazIran
- Stem Cell and Transgenic Technology Research CenterShahid Chamran University of AhvazAhvazIran
| | - Hatef Ghasemi Hamidabadi
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Faculty of MedicineMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
- Immunogenetic Research CenterDepartment of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Faculty of MedicineMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
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3
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Somredngan S, Theerakittayakorn K, Nguyen HT, Ngernsoungnern A, Ngernsoungnern P, Sritangos P, Ketudat-Cairns M, Imsoonthornruksa S, Keeratibharat N, Wongsan R, Rungsiwiwut R, Parnpai R. The Efficiency of Neurospheres Derived from Human Wharton's Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Spinal Cord Injury Regeneration in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043846. [PMID: 36835256 PMCID: PMC9964265 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes inflammation and neuronal degeneration, resulting in functional movement loss. Since the availability of SCI treatments is still limited, stem cell therapy is an alternative clinical treatment for SCI and neurodegenerative disorders. Human umbilical cord Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hWJ-MSCs) are an excellent option for cell therapy. This study aimed to induce hWJ-MSCs into neural stem/progenitor cells in sphere formation (neurospheres) by using neurogenesis-enhancing small molecules (P7C3 and Isx9) and transplant to recover an SCI in a rat model. Inducted neurospheres were characterized by immunocytochemistry (ICC) and gene expression analysis. The best condition group was selected for transplantation. The results showed that the neurospheres induced by 10 µM Isx9 for 7 days produced neural stem/progenitor cell markers such as Nestin and β-tubulin 3 through the Wnt3A signaling pathway regulation markers (β-catenin and NeuroD1 gene expression). The neurospheres from the 7-day Isx9 group were selected to be transplanted into 9-day-old SCI rats. Eight weeks after transplantation, rats transplanted with the neurospheres could move normally, as shown by behavioral tests. MSCs and neurosphere cells were detected in the injured spinal cord tissue and produced neurotransmitter activity. Neurosphere-transplanted rats showed the lowest cavity size of the SCI tissue resulting from the injury recovery mechanism. In conclusion, hWJ-MSCs could differentiate into neurospheres using 10 µM Isx9 media through the Wnt3A signaling pathway. The locomotion and tissue recovery of the SCI rats with neurosphere transplantation were better than those without transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirilak Somredngan
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Kasem Theerakittayakorn
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Hong Thi Nguyen
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
- Laboratory of Embryo Technology, Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Apichart Ngernsoungnern
- School of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Piyada Ngernsoungnern
- School of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Pishyaporn Sritangos
- School of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Mariena Ketudat-Cairns
- School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Sumeth Imsoonthornruksa
- School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Nattawut Keeratibharat
- School of Surgery, Institute of Medicine, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Rangsirat Wongsan
- The Center for Scientific and Technological Equipment, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Ruttachuk Rungsiwiwut
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
| | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-442-242-34
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4
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The aOECs Facilitate the Neuronal Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells in the Inflammatory Microenvironment Through Up-Regulation of Bioactive Factors and Activation of Wnt3/β-Catenin Pathway. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:789-806. [PMID: 36371572 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03113-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic application of neural stem cells (NSCs) in the central nerve system (CNS) injury is a promising strategy for combating irreversible neuronal loss. However, a variety of obvious inflammatory responses following nerve injury rapidly create an unfavorable microenvironment for survival and neuronal differentiation of NSCs in lesion area, limiting the efficacy of NSC-based therapy for CNS injury. It remained unknown how to effectively increase the neuronal differentiation efficiency of NSCs through transplantation. Here, we demonstrated that curcumin (CCM)-activated olfactory ensheathing cells (aOECs) effectively promoted neuronal differentiation of NSCs in the activated microglial inflammatory condition, and co-transplantation of aOECs and NSCs improved neurological recovery of rats after spinal cord injury (SCI), as evidenced by higher expression levels of neuronal markers and lower expression levels of glial markers in the differentiated cells, greater number of Tuj-1-positive cells as well as higher Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor scale, compared to the corresponding controls. Pathologically, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunostaining also showed that aOECs remarkably enhanced the in vivo neuronal differentiation of NSCs and migration, and nerve repair. Further analysis revealed that the underlying mechanisms of aOECs potentiating the neuronal conversion of NSCs under inflammatory environment were tightly associated with up-regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines and neurotrophic factors in OECs, and importantly, the activation of Wnt3/β-catenin pathway was likely involved in the mechanisms underlying the observed cellular events. Therefore, this study provides a promising strategy for SCI repair by co-transplantation of aOECs and NSCs.
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5
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Lavoie NS, Truong V, Malone D, Pengo T, Patil N, Dutton JR, Parr AM. Human induced pluripotent stem cells integrate, create synapses and extend long axons after spinal cord injury. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:1932-1942. [PMID: 35257489 PMCID: PMC8980929 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous interventions have been explored in animal models using cells differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in the context of neural injury with some success. Our work seeks to transplant cells that are generated from hiPSCs into regionally specific spinal neural progenitor cells (sNPCs) utilizing a novel accelerated differentiation protocol designed for clinical translation. We chose a xenotransplantation model because our laboratory is focused on the behaviour of human cells in order to bring this potential therapy to translation. Cells were transplanted into adult immunodeficient rats after moderate contusion spinal cord injury (SCI). Twelve weeks later, cells derived from the transplanted sNPCs survived and differentiated into neurons and glia that filled the lesion cavity and produced a thoracic spinal cord transcriptional program in vivo. Furthermore, neurogenesis and ionic channel expression were promoted within the adjacent host spinal cord tissue. Transplanted cells displayed robust integration properties including synapse formation and myelination by host oligodendrocytes. Axons from transplanted hiPSC sNPC‐derived cells extended both rostrally and caudally from the SCI transplant site, rostrally approximately 6 cm into supraspinal structures. Thus, iPSC‐derived sNPCs may provide a patient‐specific cell source for patients with SCI that could provide a relay system across the site of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Stoflet Lavoie
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Vincent Truong
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Dane Malone
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Thomas Pengo
- University of Minnesota Imaging Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nandadevi Patil
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - James R Dutton
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ann M Parr
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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6
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Mutepfa AR, Hardy JG, Adams CF. Electroactive Scaffolds to Improve Neural Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2022; 4:693438. [PMID: 35274106 PMCID: PMC8902299 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2022.693438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious condition caused by damage to the spinal cord through trauma or disease, often with permanent debilitating effects. Globally, the prevalence of SCI is estimated between 40 to 80 cases per million people per year. Patients with SCI can experience devastating health and socioeconomic consequences from paralysis, which is a loss of motor, sensory and autonomic nerve function below the level of the injury that often accompanies SCI. SCI carries a high mortality and increased risk of premature death due to secondary complications. The health, social and economic consequences of SCI are significant, and therefore elucidation of the complex molecular processes that occur in SCI and development of novel effective treatments is critical. Despite advances in medicine for the SCI patient such as surgery and anaesthesiology, imaging, rehabilitation and drug discovery, there have been no definitive findings toward complete functional neurologic recovery. However, the advent of neural stem cell therapy and the engineering of functionalized biomaterials to facilitate cell transplantation and promote regeneration of damaged spinal cord tissue presents a potential avenue to advance SCI research. This review will explore this emerging field and identify new lines of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthea R. Mutepfa
- Neural Tissue Engineering Keele, School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
| | - John G. Hardy
- Department of Chemistry, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
- Materials Science Institute, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher F. Adams
- Neural Tissue Engineering Keele, School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
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7
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Long-Term Effects of Neural Precursor Cell Transplantation on Secondary Injury Processes and Functional Recovery after Severe Cervical Contusion-Compression Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313106. [PMID: 34884911 PMCID: PMC8658203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) remains a devastating event without adequate treatment options despite decades of research. In this context, the usefulness of common preclinical SCI models has been criticized. We, therefore, aimed to use a clinically relevant animal model of severe cervical SCI to assess the long-term effects of neural precursor cell (NPC) transplantation on secondary injury processes and functional recovery. To this end, we performed a clip contusion-compression injury at the C6 level in 40 female Wistar rats and a sham surgery in 10 female Wistar rats. NPCs, isolated from the subventricular zone of green fluorescent protein (GFP) expressing transgenic rat embryos, were transplanted ten days after the injury. Functional recovery was assessed weekly, and FluoroGold (FG) retrograde fiber-labeling, as well as manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI), were performed prior to the sacrifice of the animals eight weeks after SCI. After cryosectioning of the spinal cords, immunofluorescence staining was conducted. Results were compared between the treatment groups (NPC, Vehicle, Sham) and statistically analyzed (p < 0.05 was considered significant). Despite the severity of the injury, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality during the experiment, long-term survival of the engrafted NPCs with a predominant differentiation into oligodendrocytes could be observed after eight weeks. While myelination of the injured spinal cord was not significantly improved, NPC treated animals showed a significant increase of intact perilesional motor neurons and preserved spinal tracts compared to untreated Vehicle animals. These findings were associated with enhanced preservation of intact spinal cord tissue. However, reactive astrogliosis and inflammation where not significantly reduced by the NPC-treatment. While differences in the Basso–Beattie–Bresnahan (BBB) score and the Gridwalk test remained insignificant, animals in the NPC group performed significantly better in the more objective CatWalk XT gait analysis, suggesting some beneficial effects of the engrafted NPCs on the functional recovery after severe cervical SCI.
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8
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Chang DJ, Cho HY, Hwang S, Lee N, Choi C, Lee H, Hong KS, Oh SH, Kim HS, Shin DA, Yoon YW, Song J. Therapeutic Effect of BDNF-Overexpressing Human Neural Stem Cells (F3.BDNF) in a Contusion Model of Spinal Cord Injury in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6970. [PMID: 34203489 PMCID: PMC8269438 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The most common type of spinal cord injury is the contusion of the spinal cord, which causes progressive secondary tissue degeneration. In this study, we applied genetically modified human neural stem cells overexpressing BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) (F3.BDNF) to determine whether they can promote functional recovery in the spinal cord injury (SCI) model in rats. We transplanted F3.BDNF cells via intrathecal catheter delivery after a contusion of the thoracic spinal cord and found that they were migrated toward the injured spinal cord area by MR imaging. Transplanted F3.BDNF cells expressed neural lineage markers, such as NeuN, MBP, and GFAP and were functionally connected to the host neurons. The F3.BDNF-transplanted rats exhibited significantly improved locomotor functions compared with the sham group. This functional recovery was accompanied by an increased volume of spared myelination and decreased area of cystic cavity in the F3.BDNF group. We also observed that the F3.BDNF-transplanted rats showed reduced numbers of Iba1- and iNOS-positive inflammatory cells as well as GFAP-positive astrocytes. These results strongly suggest the transplantation of F3.BDNF cells can modulate inflammatory cells and glia activation and also improve the hyperalgesia following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Jeong Chang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Korea; (D.-J.C.); (S.H.); (N.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Hwi-Young Cho
- Department of Physical Therapy, Gachon University, 191 Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Korea;
| | - Seyoung Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Korea; (D.-J.C.); (S.H.); (N.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Nayeon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Korea; (D.-J.C.); (S.H.); (N.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Chunggab Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Korea; (D.-J.C.); (S.H.); (N.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Hyunseung Lee
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, 162 Yeongudanji-ro, Ochang-eup, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju-si 28119, Chungcheongbuk-do, Korea; (H.L.); (K.S.H.)
| | - Kwan Soo Hong
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, 162 Yeongudanji-ro, Ochang-eup, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju-si 28119, Chungcheongbuk-do, Korea; (H.L.); (K.S.H.)
| | - Seung-Hun Oh
- CHA Bundang Medical Center, Department of Neurology, CHA University, 59 Yatap-ro, Budang-gu, Seongnam-si 13496, Gyeonggi-do, Korea; (S.-H.O.); (H.S.K.)
| | - Hyun Sook Kim
- CHA Bundang Medical Center, Department of Neurology, CHA University, 59 Yatap-ro, Budang-gu, Seongnam-si 13496, Gyeonggi-do, Korea; (S.-H.O.); (H.S.K.)
| | - Dong Ah Shin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1, Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Young Wook Yoon
- Department of Physiology, Korea University College of Medicine, Anam-dong 5-ga, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Jihwan Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Korea; (D.-J.C.); (S.H.); (N.L.); (C.C.)
- iPS Bio, Inc., 3F, 16 Daewangpangyo-ro 712 Beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
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9
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Tejeda G, Ciciriello AJ, Dumont CM. Biomaterial Strategies to Bolster Neural Stem Cell-Mediated Repair of the Central Nervous System. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 211:655-669. [PMID: 34120118 DOI: 10.1159/000515351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapies have the potential to not only repair, but to regenerate tissue of the central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies demonstrate that transplanted stem cells can differentiate into neurons and integrate with the intact circuitry after traumatic injury. Unfortunately, the positive findings described in rodent models have not been replicated in clinical trials, where the burden to maintain the cell viability necessary for tissue repair becomes more challenging. Low transplant survival remains the greatest barrier to stem cell-mediated repair of the CNS, often with fewer than 1-2% of the transplanted cells remaining after 1 week. Strategic transplantation parameters, such as injection location, cell concentration, and transplant timing achieve only modest improvements in stem cell transplant survival and appear inconsistent across studies. Biomaterials provide researchers with a means to significantly improve stem cell transplant survival through two mechanisms: (1) a vehicle to deliver and protect the stem cells and (2) a substrate to control the cytotoxic injury environment. These biomaterial strategies can alleviate cell death associated with delivery to the injury and can be used to limit cell death after transplantation by limiting cell exposure to cytotoxic signals. Moreover, it is likely that control of the injury environment with biomaterials will lead to a more reliable support for transplanted cell populations. This review will highlight the challenges associated with cell delivery in the CNS and the advances in biomaterial development and deployment for stem cell therapies necessary to bolster stem cell-mediated repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Tejeda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA.,Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Andrew J Ciciriello
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA.,Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Courtney M Dumont
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA.,Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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10
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Bonilla P, Hernandez J, Giraldo E, González-Pérez MA, Alastrue-Agudo A, Elkhenany H, Vicent MJ, Navarro X, Edel M, Moreno-Manzano V. Human-Induced Neural and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy Combined with a Curcumin Nanoconjugate as a Spinal Cord Injury Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5966. [PMID: 34073117 PMCID: PMC8198521 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We currently lack effective treatments for the devastating loss of neural function associated with spinal cord injury (SCI). In this study, we evaluated a combination therapy comprising human neural stem cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC-NSC), human mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), and a pH-responsive polyacetal-curcumin nanoconjugate (PA-C) that allows the sustained release of curcumin. In vitro analysis demonstrated that PA-C treatment protected iPSC-NSC from oxidative damage in vitro, while MSC co-culture prevented lipopolysaccharide-induced activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in iPSC-NSC. Then, we evaluated the combination of PA-C delivery into the intrathecal space in a rat model of contusive SCI with stem cell transplantation. While we failed to observe significant improvements in locomotor function (BBB scale) in treated animals, histological analysis revealed that PA-C-treated or PA-C and iPSC-NSC + MSC-treated animals displayed significantly smaller scars, while PA-C and iPSC-NSC + MSC treatment induced the preservation of β-III Tubulin-positive axons. iPSC-NSC + MSC transplantation fostered the preservation of motoneurons and myelinated tracts, while PA-C treatment polarized microglia into an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Overall, the combination of stem cell transplantation and PA-C treatment confers higher neuroprotective effects compared to individual treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Bonilla
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain; (P.B.); (E.G.); (M.A.G.-P.); (A.A.-A.); (H.E.)
| | - Joaquim Hernandez
- Neuroplasticity and Regeneration Group, Department Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and CIBERNED, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain; (J.H.); (X.N.)
| | - Esther Giraldo
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain; (P.B.); (E.G.); (M.A.G.-P.); (A.A.-A.); (H.E.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Miguel A. González-Pérez
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain; (P.B.); (E.G.); (M.A.G.-P.); (A.A.-A.); (H.E.)
| | - Ana Alastrue-Agudo
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain; (P.B.); (E.G.); (M.A.G.-P.); (A.A.-A.); (H.E.)
| | - Hoda Elkhenany
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain; (P.B.); (E.G.); (M.A.G.-P.); (A.A.-A.); (H.E.)
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 22785, Egypt
| | - María J. Vicent
- Polymer Therapeutics Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Neuroplasticity and Regeneration Group, Department Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and CIBERNED, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain; (J.H.); (X.N.)
| | - Michael Edel
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Institut Barraquer, 08021 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Victoria Moreno-Manzano
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain; (P.B.); (E.G.); (M.A.G.-P.); (A.A.-A.); (H.E.)
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11
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Zeng CW, Kamei Y, Shigenobu S, Sheu JC, Tsai HJ. Injury-induced Cavl-expressing cells at lesion rostral side play major roles in spinal cord regeneration. Open Biol 2021; 11:200304. [PMID: 33622104 PMCID: PMC8061693 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The extent of cellular heterogeneity involved in neuronal regeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI) remains unclear. Therefore, we established stress-responsive transgenic zebrafish embryos with SCI. As a result, we found an SCI-induced cell population, termed SCI stress-responsive regenerating cells (SrRCs), essential for neuronal regeneration post-SCI. SrRCs were mostly composed of subtypes of radial glia (RGs-SrRCs) and neuron stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs-SrRCs) that are able to differentiate into neurons, and they formed a bridge across the lesion and connected with neighbouring undamaged motor neurons post-SCI. Compared to SrRCs at the caudal side of the SCI site (caudal-SrRCs), rostral-SrRCs participated more actively in neuronal regeneration. After RNA-seq analysis, we discovered that caveolin 1 (cav1) was significantly upregulated in rostral-SrRCs and that cav1 was responsible for the axonal regrowth and regenerative capability of rostral-SrRCs. Collectively, we define a specific SCI-induced cell population, SrRCs, involved in neuronal regeneration, demonstrate that rostral-SrRCs exhibit higher neuronal differentiation capability and prove that cav1 is predominantly expressed in rostral-SrRCs, playing a major role in neuronal regeneration after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wei Zeng
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.,Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taipei 10008, Taiwan
| | - Yasuhiro Kamei
- Spectrography and Bioimaging Facility, National Institute for Basic Biology (NIBB), National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS), Okazaki 444-8585, Japan.,Department of Basic Biology, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Okazaki 444-8585, Japan
| | - Shuji Shigenobu
- Department of Basic Biology, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Okazaki 444-8585, Japan.,Functional Genomics Facility, NIBB, NINS, Okazaki 444-8585, Japan
| | - Jin-Chuan Sheu
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taipei 10008, Taiwan
| | - Huai-Jen Tsai
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 25245, Taiwan.,Department of Life Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242062, Taiwan
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12
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Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) results in direct and indirect damage to neural tissues, which results in motor and sensory dysfunction, dystonia, and pathological reflex that ultimately lead to paraplegia or tetraplegia. A loss of cells, axon regeneration failure, and time-sensitive pathophysiology make tissue repair difficult. Despite various medical developments, there are currently no effective regenerative treatments. Stem cell therapy is a promising treatment for SCI due to its multiple targets and reactivity benefits. The present review focuses on SCI stem cell therapy, including bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, umbilical mesenchymal stem cells, adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells, neural stem cells, neural progenitor cells, embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and extracellular vesicles. Each cell type targets certain features of SCI pathology and shows therapeutic effects via cell replacement, nutritional support, scaffolds, and immunomodulation mechanisms. However, many preclinical studies and a growing number of clinical trials found that single-cell treatments had only limited benefits for SCI. SCI damage is multifaceted, and there is a growing consensus that a combined treatment is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyi Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center, 34753West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, PR China
| | - Chenying Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, 34753West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Feng Xiong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center, 34753West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, PR China
| | - Chengqi He
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center, 34753West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, PR China
| | - Quan Wei
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center, 34753West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, PR China
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13
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Zeng CW, Sheu JC, Tsai HJ. The Neuronal Regeneration of Adult Zebrafish After Spinal Cord Injury Is Enhanced by Transplanting Optimized Number of Neural Progenitor Cells. Cell Transplant 2021; 29:963689720903679. [PMID: 32233781 PMCID: PMC7444222 DOI: 10.1177/0963689720903679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell transplantation is commonly used to study the regeneration and
repair of the nervous system in animals. However, a technical platform
used to evaluate the optimum number of transplanted cells in the
recipient’s spinal cord is little reported. Therefore, to develop such
platform, we used a zebrafish model, which has transparent embryos,
and transgenic line huORFZ, which generates green
fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing cells in the central nervous
system under hypoxic stress. After GFP-expressing cells, also termed
as hypoxia-responsive recovering cells, were obtained from
hypoxia-exposed huORFZ embryos, we transplanted these
GFP-(+) cells into the site of spinal cord injury (SCI) in adult
wild-type zebrafish, followed by assessing the relationship between
number of transplanted cells and the survival rate of recipients. When
100, 300, 500, and 1,000 GFP-(+) donor cells were transplanted into
the lesion site of SCI-treated recipients, we found that recipient
adult zebrafish transplanted with 300 donor cells had the highest
survival rate. Those GFP-(+) donor cells could undergo proliferation
and differentiation into neuron in recipients. Furthermore,
transplantation of GFP-(+) cells into adult zebrafish treated with SCI
was able to enhance the neuronal regeneration of recipients. In
contrast, those fish transplanted with over 500 cells showed signs of
inflammation around the SCI site, resulting in higher mortality. In
this study, we developed a technological platform for transplanting
cells into the lesion site of SCI-treated adult zebrafish and defined
the optimum number of successfully transplanted cells into recipients,
as 300, and those GFP-(+) donor cells could enhance recipient’s spinal
cord regeneration. Thus, we provided a practical methodology for
studying cell transplantation therapy in neuronal regeneration of
zebrafish after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wei Zeng
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei.,Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taipei
| | - Jin-Chuan Sheu
- Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation, Taipei
| | - Huai-Jen Tsai
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City
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14
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Zhang J, Wang RJ, Chen M, Liu XY, Ma K, Xu HY, Deng WS, Ye YC, Li WX, Chen XY, Sun HT. Collagen/heparan sulfate porous scaffolds loaded with neural stem cells improve neurological function in a rat model of traumatic brain injury. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1068-1077. [PMID: 33269752 PMCID: PMC8224125 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.300458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
One reason for the poor therapeutic effects of stem cell transplantation in traumatic brain injury is that exogenous neural stem cells cannot effectively migrate to the local injury site, resulting in poor adhesion and proliferation of neural stem cells at the injured area. To enhance the targeted delivery of exogenous stem cells to the injury site, cell therapy combined with neural tissue engineering technology is expected to become a new strategy for treating traumatic brain injury. Collagen/heparan sulfate porous scaffolds, prepared using a freeze-drying method, have stable physical and chemical properties. These scaffolds also have good cell biocompatibility because of their high porosity, which is suitable for the proliferation and migration of neural stem cells. In the present study, collagen/heparan sulfate porous scaffolds loaded with neural stem cells were used to treat a rat model of traumatic brain injury, which was established using the controlled cortical impact method. At 2 months after the implantation of collagen/heparan sulfate porous scaffolds loaded with neural stem cells, there was significantly improved regeneration of neurons, nerve fibers, synapses, and myelin sheaths in the injured brain tissue. Furthermore, brain edema and cell apoptosis were significantly reduced, and rat motor and cognitive functions were markedly recovered. These findings suggest that the novel collagen/heparan sulfate porous scaffold loaded with neural stem cells can improve neurological function in a rat model of traumatic brain injury. This study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee of Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People’s Armed Police Force, China (approval No. 2017-0007.2) on February 10, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force; Graduate School, Logistics University of People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Ren-Jie Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Miao Chen
- Graduate School, Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiao-Yin Liu
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ke Ma
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force; Graduate School, Logistics University of People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui-You Xu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force; Graduate School, Logistics University of People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Wu-Sheng Deng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi-Chao Ye
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force; Graduate School, Logistics University of People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei-Xin Li
- Graduate School, Logistics University of People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Xu-Yi Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong-Tao Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma Repair, Institute of Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience, Characteristic Medical Center of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, China
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15
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Ahuja CS, Mothe A, Khazaei M, Badhiwala JH, Gilbert EA, van der Kooy D, Morshead CM, Tator C, Fehlings MG. The leading edge: Emerging neuroprotective and neuroregenerative cell-based therapies for spinal cord injury. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 9:1509-1530. [PMID: 32691994 PMCID: PMC7695641 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.19-0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are associated with tremendous physical, social, and financial costs for millions of individuals and families worldwide. Rapid delivery of specialized medical and surgical care has reduced mortality; however, long-term functional recovery remains limited. Cell-based therapies represent an exciting neuroprotective and neuroregenerative strategy for SCI. This article summarizes the most promising preclinical and clinical cell approaches to date including transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells, neural stem cells, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, Schwann cells, and olfactory ensheathing cells, as well as strategies to activate endogenous multipotent cell pools. Throughout, we emphasize the fundamental biology of cell-based therapies, critical features in the pathophysiology of spinal cord injury, and the strengths and limitations of each approach. We also highlight salient completed and ongoing clinical trials worldwide and the bidirectional translation of their findings. We then provide an overview of key adjunct strategies such as trophic factor support to optimize graft survival and differentiation, engineered biomaterials to provide a support scaffold, electrical fields to stimulate migration, and novel approaches to degrade the glial scar. We also discuss important considerations when initiating a clinical trial for a cell therapy such as the logistics of clinical-grade cell line scale-up, cell storage and transportation, and the delivery of cells into humans. We conclude with an outlook on the future of cell-based treatments for SCI and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher S. Ahuja
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Andrea Mothe
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Mohamad Khazaei
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Jetan H. Badhiwala
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Emily A. Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Derek van der Kooy
- Department of Molecular GeneticsUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Cindi M. Morshead
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Division of Anatomy, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Charles Tator
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
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16
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Ciciriello AJ, Smith DR, Munsell MK, Boyd SJ, Shea LD, Dumont CM. Acute Implantation of Aligned Hydrogel Tubes Supports Delayed Spinal Progenitor Implantation. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:5771-5784. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Ciciriello
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33156, United States
- Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, 1951 NW Seventh Avenue Suite 475, Miami, Florida 33136, United States
| | - Dominique R. Smith
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Boulevard, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Mary K. Munsell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Boulevard, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Sydney J. Boyd
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33156, United States
| | - Lonnie D. Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Boulevard, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2300 Hayward Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Courtney M. Dumont
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33156, United States
- Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, 1951 NW Seventh Avenue Suite 475, Miami, Florida 33136, United States
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17
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Three Growth Factors Induce Proliferation and Differentiation of Neural Precursor Cells In Vitro and Support Cell-Transplantation after Spinal Cord Injury In Vivo. Stem Cells Int 2020; 2020:5674921. [PMID: 32774390 PMCID: PMC7399764 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5674921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy with neural precursor cells (NPCs) has the potential to improve neuroregeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI). Unfortunately, survival and differentiation of transplanted NPCs in the injured spinal cord remains low. Growth factors have been successfully used to improve NPC transplantation in animal models, but their extensive application is associated with a relevant financial burden and might hinder translation of findings into the clinical practice. In our current study, we assessed the potential of a reduced number of growth factors in different combinations and concentrations to increase proliferation and differentiation of NPCs in vitro. After identifying a “cocktail” (EGF, bFGF, and PDGF-AA) that directed cell fate towards the oligodendroglial and neuronal lineage while reducing astrocytic differentiation, we translated our findings into an in vivo model of cervical clip contusion/compression SCI at the C6 level in immunosuppressed Wistar rats, combining NPC transplantation and intrathecal administration of the growth factors 10 days after injury. Eight weeks after SCI, we could observe surviving NPCs in the injured animals that had mostly differentiated into oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocytic precursors. Moreover, “Stride length” and “Average Speed” in the CatWalk gait analysis were significantly improved 8 weeks after SCI, representing beneficial effects on the functional recovery with NPC transplantation and the administration of the three growth factors. Nevertheless, no effects on the BBB scores could be observed over the course of the experiment and regeneration of descending tracts as well as posttraumatic myelination remained unchanged. However, reactive astrogliosis, as well as posttraumatic inflammation and apoptosis was significantly reduced after NPC transplantation and GF administration. Our data suggest that NPC transplantation is feasible with the use of only EGF, bFGF, and PDGF-AA as supporting growth factors.
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18
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Wartalski K, Gorczyca G, Wiater J, Tabarowski Z, Palus-Chramiec K, Setkowicz Z, Duda M. Efficient generation of neural-like cells from porcine ovarian putative stem cells - morphological characterization and evaluation of their electrophysiological properties. Theriogenology 2020; 155:256-268. [PMID: 32810809 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Until recently, the mammalian ovary was considered to consist of fully differentiated tissues, but evidence for the presence of adult stem cells in this organ appeared. The differentiation potential of these cells, referred to as putative stem cells, is not well defined. Porcine ovarian putative stem cells (poPSCs) were immunomagnetically isolated from postnatal pig ovaries based on the presence of the SSEA-4 surface marker protein. First, they were cultured in the undifferentiated state. After the third passage, a novel 7-day culture method inducing their differentiation into neural-like cells by the addition of forskolin (FSK), retinoic acid (RA) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) to the culture medium was applied. After 7 days, poPSCs successfully differentiated into neural-like cells, as evidenced by neural morphology and the presence of the neuronal markers nestin, NeuN, and GFAP, as confirmed by immunofluorescence, western blot, and real-time PCR. Electrophysiological analysis of potassium and sodium channel activity (patch clamp) confirmed that they indeed differentiated into neurons. The plasticity of poPSCs offers an excellent opportunity, especially in the field of neuroscience, since they can differentiate into neurons or glial cells. Although poPSCs might not be pluripotent cells, they also escape the rigid classification framework of adult stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Wartalski
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland; Department of Histology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 7, 31-034, Krakow, Poland
| | - Gabriela Gorczyca
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jerzy Wiater
- Department of Histology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 7, 31-034, Krakow, Poland; Department of Cell Biology and Imaging, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Tabarowski
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Palus-Chramiec
- Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Setkowicz
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Duda
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland.
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19
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Yamazaki K, Kawabori M, Seki T, Houkin K. Clinical Trials of Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113994. [PMID: 32498423 PMCID: PMC7313002 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There are more than one million patients worldwide suffering paralysis caused by spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI causes severe socioeconomic problems not only to the patients and their caregivers but also to society; therefore, the development of innovative treatments is crucial. Many pharmacological therapies have been attempted in an effort to reduce SCI-related damage; however, no single therapy that could dramatically improve the serious long-term sequelae of SCI has emerged. Stem cell transplantation therapy, which can ameliorate damage or regenerate neurological networks, has been proposed as a promising candidate for SCI treatment, and many basic and clinical experiments using stem cells for SCI treatment have been launched, with promising results. However, the cell transplantation methods, including cell type, dose, transplantation route, and transplantation timing, vary widely between trials, and there is no consensus regarding the most effective treatment strategy. This study reviews the current knowledge on this issue, with a special focus on the clinical trials that have used stem cells for treating SCI, and highlights the problems that remain to be solved before the widespread clinical use of stem cells can be adopted.
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20
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The effect of Matrigel as scaffold material for neural stem cell transplantation for treating spinal cord injury. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2576. [PMID: 32054865 PMCID: PMC7018993 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59148-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic injury to the spinal cord causes permanent loss of function and major personal, social, and economic problems. Cell-based delivery strategies is a promising approach for treating spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the inhospitable microenvironment in the injured spinal cord results in poor cell survival and uncontrolled differentiation of the transplanted stem cells. The combination of a scaffold with cells has been developed with a tendency for achieving greater survival and integration with the host tissue. We investigated the effect of Matrigel combined with neural stem cells (NSCs) in vitro and in vivo. We compared the effect of different types of scaffold on the survival and differentiation of brain-derived NSCs in an in vitro culture. Subsequently, NSCs were transplanted subcutaneously into nude mice to detect graft survival and differentiation in vivo. Finally, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), Matrigel alone, or Matrigel seeded with NSCs was injected into 48 subacute, clinically relevant rat models of SCI (16 rats per group). Matrigel supported cell survival and differentiation efficiently in vitro and in vivo. SCI rats transplanted with NSCs in Matrigel showed improved behavioral recovery and neuronal and reactive astrocyte marker expression levels compared to PBS- or Matrigel-transplanted rats. Functional repair and neuronal and reactive astrocyte marker expression was slightly improved in the Matrigel-alone group relative to the PBS group, but not statistically significantly. These data suggest that Matrigel is a promising scaffold material for cell transplantation to the injured spinal cord.
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21
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Kobashi S, Terashima T, Katagi M, Nakae Y, Okano J, Suzuki Y, Urushitani M, Kojima H. Transplantation of M2-Deviated Microglia Promotes Recovery of Motor Function after Spinal Cord Injury in Mice. Mol Ther 2019; 28:254-265. [PMID: 31604678 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the poor prognosis of spinal cord injury (SCI), effective treatments are lacking. Diverse factors regulate SCI prognosis. In this regard, microglia play crucial roles depending on their phenotype. The M1 phenotype exacerbates neuroinflammation, whereas the M2 phenotype promotes tissue repair and provides anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, we compared the effects of M2 and M1 microglia transplantation on SCI. First, we established a method for effective induction of M1 or M2 microglia by exposure to granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) or interleukin (IL)-4, respectively, to be used for transplantation in a SCI mouse model. In the M2 microglia transplantation group, significant recovery of motor function was observed compared with the control and M1 groups. Elevated transcription of several neuroprotective molecules including mannose receptor C type 1 (Mrc1), arginase 1 (Arg1), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (Igf1) was observed. Moreover, intramuscular injection of FluoroRuby dye revealed recovery of retrograde axonal transport from the neuromuscular junction to upstream of the injured spinal cord only in the M2-transplanted group, although the number of migrated microglia were comparable in both M1 and M2 groups. In conclusion, our results indicated that M2 microglia obtained by IL-4 stimulation may be a promising candidate for cell transplantation therapy for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Kobashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan; Department of Neurology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Tomoya Terashima
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan.
| | - Miwako Katagi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Yuki Nakae
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Junko Okano
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Suzuki
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Makoto Urushitani
- Department of Neurology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Hideto Kojima
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
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Ma Y, Deng M, Liu M. Effect of Differently Polarized Macrophages on Proliferation and Differentiation of Ependymal Cells from Adult Spinal Cord. J Neurotrauma 2019; 36:2337-2347. [PMID: 30638124 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2018.6133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yonggang Ma
- 1Department of Orthopedics, Renmin Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan City, China
| | - Ming Deng
- 1Department of Orthopedics, Renmin Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan City, China
| | - Min Liu
- 2Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan City, China
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23
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Stem cell paracrine effect and delivery strategies for spinal cord injury regeneration. J Control Release 2019; 300:141-153. [PMID: 30851286 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complicated neuropathological condition that results in functional dysfunction and paralysis. Various treatments have been proposed including drugs, biological factors and cells administered in several ways. Stem cell therapy offers a potentially revolutionary mode to repair the damaged spinal cord after injury. Initially, stem cells were considered promising for replacing cells and tissue lost after SCI. Many studies looked at their differentiation to replace neuronal and glial cells for a better functional outcome. However, it is becoming clear that different functional improvements recognized to stem cells are due to biomolecular activities by the transplanted stem cells rather than cell replacement. This review aimed to discuss the paracrine mechanisms for tissue repair and regeneration after stem cell transplantation in SCI. It focuses on stem cell factor production, effect in tissue restoration, and novel delivery strategies to use them for SCI therapy.
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Karaoz E, Tepekoy F, Yilmaz I, Subasi C, Kabatas S. Reduction of Inflammation and Enhancement of Motility after Pancreatic Islet Derived Stem Cell Transplantation Following Spinal Cord Injury. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2019; 62:153-165. [PMID: 30840970 PMCID: PMC6411578 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2018.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a very serious health problem, usually caused by a trauma and accompanied by elevated levels of inflammation indicators. Stem cell-based therapy is promising some valuable strategies for its functional recovery. Nestin-positive progenitor and/or stem cells (SC) isolated from pancreatic islets (PI) show mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) characteristics. For this reason, we aimed to analyze the effects of rat pancreatic islet derived stem cell (rPI-SC) delivery on functional recovery, as well as the levels of inflammation factors following SCI.
Methods rPI-SCs were isolated, cultured and their MSC characteristics were determined through flow cytometry and immunofluorescence analysis. The experimental rat population was divided into three groups : 1) laminectomy & trauma, 2) laminectomy & trauma & phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and 3) laminectomy+trauma+SCs. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) labelled rPI-SCs were transplanted into the injured rat spinal cord. Their motilities were evaluated with Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) Score. After 4-weeks, spinal cord sections were analyzed for GFP labeled SCs and stained for vimentin, S100β, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), 2’,3’-cyclic-nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNPase), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and proinflammatory (interleukin [IL]-6, transforming growth factor [TGF]-β, macrophage inflammatory protein [MIP]-2, myeloperoxidase [MPO]) and anti-inflammatory (IL-1 receptor antagonis) factors.
Results rPI-SCs were revealed to display MSC characteristics and express neural and glial cell markers including BDNF, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), fibronectin, microtubule associated protein-2a,b (MAP2a,b), β3-tubulin and nestin as well as antiinflammatory prostaglandin E2 receptor, EP3. The BBB scores showed significant motor recovery in group 3. GFP-labelled cells were localized on the injury site. In addition, decreased proinflammatory factor levels and increased intensity of anti-inflammatory factors were determined.
Conclusion Transplantation of PI-SCs might be an effective strategy to improve functional recovery following spinal cord trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erdal Karaoz
- Department of Histology & Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, İstinye University, İstanbul, Turkey.,Center for Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research & Practice, İstinye University, İstanbul, Turkey.,Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research & Manufacturing (LivMedCell), İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Filiz Tepekoy
- Department of Histology & Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, İstinye University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Irem Yilmaz
- Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research & Manufacturing (LivMedCell), İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Cansu Subasi
- Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research & Manufacturing (LivMedCell), İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Serdar Kabatas
- Neurosurgery Clinic, Gaziosmanpasa Taksim Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
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25
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Beyer F, Samper Agrelo I, Küry P. Do Neural Stem Cells Have a Choice? Heterogenic Outcome of Cell Fate Acquisition in Different Injury Models. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20020455. [PMID: 30669690 PMCID: PMC6359747 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20020455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS) is generally considered as repair restricted organ with limited capacities to regenerate lost cells and to successfully integrate them into damaged nerve tracts. Despite the presence of endogenous immature cell types that can be activated upon injury or in disease cell replacement generally remains insufficient, undirected, or lost cell types are not properly generated. This limitation also accounts for the myelin repair capacity that still constitutes the default regenerative activity at least in inflammatory demyelinating conditions. Ever since the discovery of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) residing within specific niches of the adult brain, as well as the description of procedures to either isolate and propagate or artificially induce NSCs from various origins ex vivo, the field has been rejuvenated. Various sources of NSCs have been investigated and applied in current neuropathological paradigms aiming at the replacement of lost cells and the restoration of functionality based on successful integration. Whereas directing and supporting stem cells residing in brain niches constitutes one possible approach many investigations addressed their potential upon transplantation. Given the heterogeneity of these studies related to the nature of grafted cells, the local CNS environment, and applied implantation procedures we here set out to review and compare their applied protocols in order to evaluate rate-limiting parameters. Based on our compilation, we conclude that in healthy CNS tissue region specific cues dominate cell fate decisions. However, although increasing evidence points to the capacity of transplanted NSCs to reflect the regenerative need of an injury environment, a still heterogenic picture emerges when analyzing transplantation outcomes in injury or disease models. These are likely due to methodological differences despite preserved injury environments. Based on this meta-analysis, we suggest future NSC transplantation experiments to be conducted in a more comparable way to previous studies and that subsequent analyses must emphasize regional heterogeneity such as accounting for differences in gray versus white matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Beyer
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Iria Samper Agrelo
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Patrick Küry
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Badhiwala JH, Ahuja CS, Fehlings MG. Time is spine: a review of translational advances in spinal cord injury. J Neurosurg Spine 2019; 30:1-18. [PMID: 30611186 DOI: 10.3171/2018.9.spine18682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event with far-reaching physical, emotional, and economic consequences for patients, families, and society at large. Timely delivery of specialized care has reduced mortality; however, long-term neurological recovery continues to be limited. In recent years, a number of exciting neuroprotective and regenerative strategies have emerged and have come under active investigation in clinical trials, and several more are coming down the translational pipeline. Among ongoing trials are RISCIS (riluzole), INSPIRE (Neuro-Spinal Scaffold), MASC (minocycline), and SPRING (VX-210). Microstructural MRI techniques have improved our ability to image the injured spinal cord at high resolution. This innovation, combined with serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, holds the promise of providing a quantitative biomarker readout of spinal cord neural tissue injury, which may improve prognostication and facilitate stratification of patients for enrollment into clinical trials. Given evidence of the effectiveness of early surgical decompression and growing recognition of the concept that "time is spine," infrastructural changes at a systems level are being implemented in many regions around the world to provide a streamlined process for transfer of patients with acute SCI to a specialized unit. With the continued aging of the population, central cord syndrome is soon expected to become the most common form of acute traumatic SCI; characterization of the pathophysiology, natural history, and optimal treatment of these injuries is hence a key public health priority. Collaborative international efforts have led to the development of clinical practice guidelines for traumatic SCI based on robust evaluation of current evidence. The current article provides an in-depth review of progress in SCI, covering the above areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jetan H Badhiwala
- 1Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, and
- 2Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto; and
| | - Christopher S Ahuja
- 1Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, and
- 2Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto; and
- 3Department of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- 1Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, and
- 2Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto; and
- 3Department of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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27
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Dumont CM, Munsell MK, Carlson MA, Cummings BJ, Anderson AJ, Shea LD. Spinal Progenitor-Laden Bridges Support Earlier Axon Regeneration Following Spinal Cord Injury. Tissue Eng Part A 2018; 24:1588-1602. [PMID: 30215293 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2018.0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in loss of tissue innervation below the injury. Spinal progenitors have a greater ability to repair the damage and can be injected into the injury, but their regenerative potential is hampered by their poor survival after transplantation. Biomaterials can create a cell delivery platform and generate a more hospitable microenvironment for the progenitors within the injury. In this work, polymeric bridges are used to deliver embryonic spinal progenitors to the injury, resulting in increased progenitor survival and subsequent regeneration and functional recovery, thus demonstrating the importance of combined therapeutic approaches for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M Dumont
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mary K Munsell
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mitchell A Carlson
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Brian J Cummings
- 2 Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (iMIND), University of California , Irvine, California.,3 Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California , Irvine, California.,4 Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology and University of California , Irvine, California.,5 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California , Irvine, California
| | - Aileen J Anderson
- 2 Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (iMIND), University of California , Irvine, California.,3 Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California , Irvine, California.,4 Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology and University of California , Irvine, California.,5 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California , Irvine, California
| | - Lonnie D Shea
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan.,6 Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
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28
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Joung D, Truong V, Neitzke CC, Guo SZ, Walsh PJ, Monat JR, Meng F, Park SH, Dutton JR, Parr AM, McAlpine MC. 3D Printed Stem-Cell Derived Neural Progenitors Generate Spinal Cord Scaffolds. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2018; 28:1801850. [PMID: 32595422 PMCID: PMC7319181 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201801850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
A bioengineered spinal cord is fabricated via extrusion-based multi-material 3D bioprinting, in which clusters of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived spinal neuronal progenitor cells (sNPCs) and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) are placed in precise positions within 3D printed biocompatible scaffolds during assembly. The location of a cluster of cells, of a single type or multiple types, is controlled using a point-dispensing printing method with a 200 μm center-to-center spacing within 150 μm wide channels. The bioprinted sNPCs differentiate and extend axons throughout microscale scaffold channels, and the activity of these neuronal networks is confirmed by physiological spontaneous calcium flux studies. Successful bioprinting of OPCs in combination with sNPCs demonstrates a multicellular neural tissue engineering approach, where the ability to direct the patterning and combination of transplanted neuronal and glial cells can be beneficial in rebuilding functional axonal connections across areas of central nervous system (CNS) tissue damage. This platform can be used to prepare novel biomimetic, hydrogel-based scaffolds modeling complex CNS tissue architecture in vitro and harnessed to develop new clinical approaches to treat neurological diseases, including spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daeha Joung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Vincent Truong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Colin C. Neitzke
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Shuang-Zhuang Guo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Patrick J. Walsh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Joseph R. Monat
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Fanben Meng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Sung Hyun Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - James R. Dutton
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Ann M. Parr
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Michael C. McAlpine
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
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29
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Wu S, FitzGerald KT, Giordano J. On the Viability and Potential Value of Stem Cells for Repair and Treatment of Central Neurotrauma: Overview and Speculations. Front Neurol 2018; 9:602. [PMID: 30150968 PMCID: PMC6099099 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Central neurotrauma, such as spinal cord injury or traumatic brain injury, can damage critical axonal pathways and neurons and lead to partial to complete loss of neural function that is difficult to address in the mature central nervous system. Improvement and innovation in the development, manufacture, and delivery of stem-cell based therapies, as well as the continued exploration of newer forms of stem cells, have allowed the professional and public spheres to resolve technical and ethical questions that previously hindered stem cell research for central nervous system injury. Recent in vitro and in vivo models have demonstrated the potential that reprogrammed autologous stem cells, in particular, have to restore functionality and induce regeneration-while potentially mitigating technical issues of immunogenicity, rejection, and ethical issues of embryonic derivation. These newer stem-cell based approaches are not, however, without concerns and problems of safety, efficacy, use and distribution. This review is an assessment of the current state of the science, the potential solutions that have been and are currently being explored, and the problems and questions that arise from what appears to be a promising way forward (i.e., autologous stem cell-based therapies)-for the purpose of advancing the research for much-needed therapeutic interventions for central neurotrauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Wu
- Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kevin T. FitzGerald
- Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - James Giordano
- Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
- Departments of Neurology and Biochemistry, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
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30
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Riemann L, Younsi A, Scherer M, Zheng G, Skutella T, Unterberg AW, Zweckberger K. Transplantation of Neural Precursor Cells Attenuates Chronic Immune Environment in Cervical Spinal Cord Injury. Front Neurol 2018; 9:428. [PMID: 29951030 PMCID: PMC6008566 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is non-resolving and thus still present in chronic injury stages. It plays a key role in the pathophysiology of SCI and has been associated with further neurodegeneration and development of neuropathic pain. Neural precursor cells (NPCs) have been shown to reduce the acute and sub-acute inflammatory response after SCI. In the present study, we examined effects of NPC transplantation on the immune environment in chronic stages of SCI. SCI was induced in rats by clip-compression of the cervical spinal cord at the level C6-C7. NPCs were transplanted 10 days post-injury. The functional outcome was assessed weekly for 8 weeks using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scale, the CatWalk system, and the grid walk test. Afterwards, the rats were sacrificed, and spinal cord sections were examined for M1/M2 macrophages, T lymphocytes, astrogliosis, and apoptosis using immunofluorescence staining. Rats treated with NPCs had compared to the control group significantly fewer pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and reduced immunodensity for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), their marker enzyme. Anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages were rarely present 8 weeks after the SCI. In this model, the sub-acute transplantation of NPCs did not support survival and proliferation of M2 macrophages. Post-traumatic apoptosis, however, was significantly reduced in the NPC group, which might be explained by the altered microenvironment following NPC transplantation. Corresponding to these findings, reactive astrogliosis was significantly reduced in NPC-transplanted animals. Furthermore, we could observe a trend toward smaller cavity sizes and functional improvement following NPC transplantation. Our data suggest that transplantation of NPCs following SCI might attenuate inflammation even in chronic injury stages. This might prevent further neurodegeneration and could also set a stage for improved neuroregeneration after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lennart Riemann
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Younsi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Moritz Scherer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Guoli Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas W Unterberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaus Zweckberger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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31
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The Effect of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Wharton's Jelly in Spinal Cord Injury Treatment Is Dose-Dependent and Can Be Facilitated by Repeated Application. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051503. [PMID: 29772841 PMCID: PMC5983761 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human mesenchymal stem cells derived from Wharton’s jelly (WJ-MSCs) were used for the treatment of the ischemic-compression model of spinal cord injury in rats. To assess the effectivity of the treatment, different dosages (0.5 or 1.5 million cells) and repeated applications were compared. Cells or saline were applied intrathecally by lumbar puncture for one week only, or in three consecutive weeks after injury. Rats were assessed for locomotor skills (BBB, rotarod, flat beam) for 9 weeks. Spinal cord tissue was morphometrically analyzed for axonal sprouting, sparing of gray and white matter and astrogliosis. Endogenous gene expression (Gfap, Casp3, Irf5, Cd86, Mrc1, Cd163) was studied with quantitative Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT PCR). Significant recovery of functional outcome was observed in all of the treated groups except for the single application of the lowest number of cells. Histochemical analyses revealed a gradually increasing effect of grafted cells, resulting in a significant increase in the number of GAP43+ fibers, a higher amount of spared gray matter and reduced astrogliosis. mRNA expression of macrophage markers and apoptosis was downregulated after the repeated application of 1.5 million cells. We conclude that the effect of hWJ-MSCs on spinal cord regeneration is dose-dependent and potentiated by repeated application.
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32
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Geissler SA, Sabin AL, Besser RR, Gooden OM, Shirk BD, Nguyen QM, Khaing ZZ, Schmidt CE. Biomimetic hydrogels direct spinal progenitor cell differentiation and promote functional recovery after spinal cord injury. J Neural Eng 2018; 15:025004. [PMID: 29303112 PMCID: PMC5988207 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aaa55c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Demyelination that results from disease or traumatic injury, such as spinal cord injury (SCI), can have a devastating effect on neural function and recovery. Many researchers are examining treatments to minimize demyelination by improving oligodendrocyte availability in vivo. Transplantation of stem and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells is a promising option, however, trials are plagued by undirected differentiation. Here we introduce a biomaterial that has been optimized to direct the differentiation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) toward oligodendrocytes as a cell delivery vehicle after SCI. APPROACH A collagen-based hydrogel was modified to mimic the mechanical properties of the neonatal spinal cord, and components present in the developing extracellular matrix were included to provide appropriate chemical cues to the NPCs to direct their differentiation toward oligodendrocytes. The hydrogel with cells was then transplanted into a unilateral cervical contusion model of SCI to examine the functional recovery with this treatment. Six behavioral tests and histological assessment were performed to examine the in vivo response to this treatment. MAIN RESULTS Our results demonstrate that we can achieve a significant increase in oligodendrocyte differentiation of NPCs compared to standard culture conditions using a three-component biomaterial composed of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and laminin that has mechanical properties matched to those of neonatal neural tissue. Additionally, SCI rats with hydrogel transplants, with and without NPCs, showed functional recovery. Animals transplanted with hydrogels with NPCs showed significantly increased functional recovery over six weeks compared to the media control group. SIGNIFICANCE The three-component hydrogel presented here has the potential to provide cues to direct differentiation in vivo to encourage regeneration of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney A Geissler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States of America. J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
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Liu S, Schackel T, Weidner N, Puttagunta R. Biomaterial-Supported Cell Transplantation Treatments for Spinal Cord Injury: Challenges and Perspectives. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 11:430. [PMID: 29375316 PMCID: PMC5768640 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI), resulting in para- and tetraplegia caused by the partial or complete disruption of descending motor and ascending sensory neurons, represents a complex neurological condition that remains incurable. Following SCI, numerous obstacles comprising of the loss of neural tissue (neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes), formation of a cavity, inflammation, loss of neuronal circuitry and function must be overcome. Given the multifaceted primary and secondary injury events that occur with SCI treatment options are likely to require combinatorial therapies. While several methods have been explored, only the intersection of two, cell transplantation and biomaterial implantation, will be addressed in detail here. Owing to the constant advance of cell culture technologies, cell-based transplantation has come to the forefront of SCI treatment in order to replace/protect damaged tissue and provide physical as well as trophic support for axonal regrowth. Biomaterial scaffolds provide cells with a protected environment from the surrounding lesion, in addition to bridging extensive damage and providing physical and directional support for axonal regrowth. Moreover, in this combinatorial approach cell transplantation improves scaffold integration and therefore regenerative growth potential. Here, we review the advances in combinatorial therapies of Schwann cells (SCs), astrocytes, olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), mesenchymal stem cells, as well as neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) with various biomaterial scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwen Liu
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Thomas Schackel
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norbert Weidner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Radhika Puttagunta
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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34
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Ferrari D, Gelati M, Profico DC, Vescovi AL. Human Fetal Neural Stem Cells for Neurodegenerative Disease Treatment. Results Probl Cell Differ 2018; 66:307-329. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-93485-3_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
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35
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Hachem LD, Mothe AJ, Tator CH. Positive Modulation of AMPA Receptors Promotes Survival and Proliferation of Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells from the Adult Rat Spinal Cord. Stem Cells Dev 2017; 26:1675-1681. [DOI: 10.1089/scd.2017.0182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laureen D. Hachem
- Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrea J. Mothe
- Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Charles H. Tator
- Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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36
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Liu M, Deng M, Ma Y. Differently polarized macrophages affect the viability and growth of NSPCs by regulating the expression of PACAP. Neuropeptides 2017; 65:114-119. [PMID: 28751044 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Revised: 04/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Objective To explore the influence of differently polarized macrophages, M1 or M2, to viability and growth of NSPCs and its possible mechanism, especially the role of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in it. METHOD Spinal cord-derived NSPCs were co-cultured with M1 or M2 through a transwell system. Growth of NSPCs in both groups was observed through an inverted microscope within 3days. NSPCs viability of each group, represented as intracellular ATP levels, was measured using the Cellular ATP Kit HTS following co-culture for 24h. PACAP levels in the co-cultured NSPCs was alleviated with immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. RESULTS Morphologically NSPCs demonstrated a long spindle shape with short sprout on 3rd day when cultured together with M2. NSPCs cultured with M1 showed a small circle or oval shape with no obvious sprout. Expression of PACAP was observed in NSPCs co-cultured with M2 through immunofluorescence. In contrast, NSPCs did not demonstrate PACAP staining in the presence of M1 or cultured alone. PACAP in the NSPCs co-cultured with M2 was upregulated significantly compared with that co-cultured with M1 according to Western blot method. The relative ATP level of NSPCs co-cultured with M1 was markedly decreased while that with M2 was elevated significantly. That trend could be relieved by exogenous PACAP or PACAP 6-38. Viability change of NSPCs by M1/M2 correlated with apoptosis. CONCLUSION Differently polarized macrophages could affect the growth and viability of NSPCs by regulating the expression of PACAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Ming Deng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan City 430060, China
| | - Yonggang Ma
- Department of Orthopaedics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan City 430060, China.
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Systemic Neutrophil Depletion Modulates the Migration and Fate of Transplanted Human Neural Stem Cells to Rescue Functional Repair. J Neurosci 2017; 37:9269-9287. [PMID: 28847814 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2785-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction of transplanted stem cells with local cellular and molecular cues in the host CNS microenvironment may affect the potential for repair by therapeutic cell populations. In this regard, spinal cord injury (SCI), Alzheimer's disease, and other neurological injuries and diseases all exhibit dramatic and dynamic changes to the host microenvironment over time. Previously, we reported that delayed transplantation of human CNS-derived neural stem cells (hCNS-SCns) at 9 or 30 d post-SCI (dpi) resulted in extensive donor cell migration, predominantly neuronal and oligodendrocytic donor cell differentiation, and functional locomotor improvements. Here, we report that acute transplantation of hCNS-SCns at 0 dpi resulted in localized astroglial differentiation of donor cells near the lesion epicenter and failure to produce functional improvement in an all-female immunodeficient mouse model. Critically, specific immunodepletion of neutrophils (polymorphonuclear leukocytes) blocked hCNS-SCns astroglial differentiation near the lesion epicenter and rescued the capacity of these cells to restore function. These data represent novel evidence that a host immune cell population can block the potential for functional repair derived from a therapeutic donor cell population, and support targeting the inflammatory microenvironment in combination with cell transplantation after SCI.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The interaction of transplanted cells with local cellular and molecular cues in the host microenvironment is a key variable that may shape the translation of neurotransplantation research to the clinical spinal cord injury (SCI) human population, and few studies have investigated these events. We show that the specific immunodepletion of polymorphonuclear leukocyte neutrophils using anti-Ly6G inhibits donor cell astrogliosis and rescues the capacity of a donor cell population to promote locomotor improvement after SCI. Critically, our data demonstrate novel evidence that a specific host immune cell population can block the potential for functional repair derived from a therapeutic donor cell population.
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38
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Nicola FC, Rodrigues LP, Crestani T, Quintiliano K, Sanches EF, Willborn S, Aristimunha D, Boisserand L, Pranke P, Netto CA. Human dental pulp stem cells transplantation combined with treadmill training in rats after traumatic spinal cord injury. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 49:e5319. [PMID: 27509306 PMCID: PMC4988478 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20165319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a disabling condition resulting in deficits of sensory and motor functions, and has no effective treatment. Considering that protocols with stem cell transplantation and treadmill training have shown promising results, the present study evaluated the effectiveness of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) transplantation combined with treadmill training in rats with experimental spinal cord injury. Fifty-four Wistar rats were spinalized using NYU impactor. The rats were randomly distributed into 5 groups: Sham (laminectomy with no SCI, n=10); SCI (laminectomy followed by SCI, n=12); SHEDs (SCI treated with SHEDs, n=11); TT (SCI treated with treadmill training, n=11); SHEDs+TT (SCI treated with SHEDs and treadmill training; n=10). Treatment with SHEDs alone or in combination with treadmill training promoted functional recovery, reaching scores of 15 and 14, respectively, in the BBB scale, being different from the SCI group, which reached 11. SHEDs treatment was able to reduce the cystic cavity area and glial scar, increase neurofilament. Treadmill training alone had no functional effectiveness or tissue effects. In a second experiment, the SHEDs transplantation reduced the TNF-α levels in the cord tissue measured 6 h after the injury. Contrary to our hypothesis, treadmill training either alone or in combination, caused no functional improvement. However, SHEDs showed to be neuroprotective, by the reduction of TNF-α levels, the cystic cavity and the glial scar associated with the improvement of motor function after SCI. These results provide evidence that grafted SHEDs might be an effective therapy to spinal cord lesions, with possible anti-inflammatory action.
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Affiliation(s)
- F C Nicola
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.,Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - L P Rodrigues
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - T Crestani
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.,Laboratório de Hematologia e Célula Tronco, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - K Quintiliano
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.,Laboratório de Hematologia e Célula Tronco, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - E F Sanches
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.,Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - S Willborn
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - D Aristimunha
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - L Boisserand
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.,Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - P Pranke
- Laboratório de Hematologia e Célula Tronco, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.,Instituto de Pesquisas com Células Tronco, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - C A Netto
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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Bastidas J, Athauda G, De La Cruz G, Chan WM, Golshani R, Berrocal Y, Henao M, Lalwani A, Mannoji C, Assi M, Otero PA, Khan A, Marcillo AE, Norenberg M, Levi AD, Wood PM, Guest JD, Dietrich WD, Bartlett Bunge M, Pearse DD. Human Schwann cells exhibit long-term cell survival, are not tumorigenic and promote repair when transplanted into the contused spinal cord. Glia 2017; 65:1278-1301. [PMID: 28543541 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The transplantation of rodent Schwann cells (SCs) provides anatomical and functional restitution in a variety of spinal cord injury (SCI) models, supporting the recent translation of SCs to phase 1 clinical trials for human SCI. Whereas human (Hu)SCs have been examined experimentally in a complete SCI transection paradigm, to date the reported behavior of SCs when transplanted after a clinically relevant contusive SCI has been restricted to the use of rodent SCs. Here, in a xenotransplant, contusive SCI paradigm, the survival, biodistribution, proliferation and tumorgenicity as well as host responses to HuSCs, cultured according to a protocol analogous to that developed for clinical application, were investigated. HuSCs persisted within the contused nude rat spinal cord through 6 months after transplantation (longest time examined), exhibited low cell proliferation, displayed no evidence of tumorigenicity and showed a restricted biodistribution to the lesion. Neuropathological examination of the CNS revealed no adverse effects of HuSCs. Animals exhibiting higher numbers of surviving HuSCs within the lesion showed greater volumes of preserved white matter and host rat SC and astrocyte ingress as well as axon ingrowth and myelination. These results demonstrate the safety of HuSCs when employed in a clinically relevant experimental SCI paradigm. Further, signs of a potentially positive influence of HuSC transplants on host tissue pathology were observed. These findings show that HuSCs exhibit a favorable toxicity profile for up to 6 months after transplantation into the contused rat spinal cord, an important outcome for FDA consideration of their use in human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johana Bastidas
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Gagani Athauda
- The Department of Cellular Biology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199.,The Department of Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199
| | - Gabriela De La Cruz
- Translational Pathology Laboratory, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599
| | - Wai-Man Chan
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Roozbeh Golshani
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Yerko Berrocal
- The Department of Cellular Biology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199.,The Department of Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199
| | - Martha Henao
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Anil Lalwani
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Chikato Mannoji
- The Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Chiba University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Mazen Assi
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - P Anthony Otero
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Aisha Khan
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Alexander E Marcillo
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Michael Norenberg
- The Department of Pathology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Allan D Levi
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Patrick M Wood
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - James D Guest
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - W Dalton Dietrich
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Neuroscience Program, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Cell Biology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Mary Bartlett Bunge
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Neuroscience Program, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Cell Biology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Damien D Pearse
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Neuroscience Program, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, 33136
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Fan X, Wang JZ, Lin XM, Zhang L. Stem cell transplantation for spinal cord injury: a meta-analysis of treatment effectiveness and safety. Neural Regen Res 2017; 12:815-825. [PMID: 28616040 PMCID: PMC5461621 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.206653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of stem cell transplantation for spinal cord injury (SCI). DATA SOURCES PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal, Wanfang, and SinoMed databases were systematically searched by computer to select clinical randomized controlled trials using stem cell transplantation to treat SCI, published between each database initiation and July 2016. DATA SELECTION Randomized controlled trials comparing stem cell transplantation with rehabilitation treatment for patients with SCI. Inclusion criteria: (1) Patients with SCI diagnosed according to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) International standards for neurological classification of SCI; (2) patients with SCI who received only stem cell transplantation therapy or stem cell transplantation combined with rehabilitation therapy; (3) one or more of the following outcomes reported: outcomes concerning neurological function including sensory function and locomotor function, activities of daily living, urination functions, and severity of SCI or adverse effects. Studies comprising patients with complications, without full-text, and preclinical animal models were excluded. Quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool and RevMan V5.3 software, provided by the Cochrane Collaboration, was used to perform statistical analysis. OUTCOME MEASURES ASIA motor score, ASIA light touch score, ASIA pinprick score, ASIA impairment scale grading improvement rate, activities of daily living score, residual urine volume, and adverse events. RESULTS Ten studies comprising 377 patients were included in the analysis and the overall risk of bias was relatively low level. Four studies did not detail how random sequences were generated, two studies did not clearly state the blinding outcome assessment, two studies lacked blinding outcome assessment, one study lacked follow-up information, and four studies carried out selective reporting. Compared with rehabilitation therapy, stem cell transplantation significantly increased the lower limb light touch score (odds ratio (OR) = 3.43, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01 - 6.86, P = 0.05), lower limb pinprick score (OR = 3.93, 95%CI: 0.74 - 7.12, P = 0.02), ASI grading rate (relative risk (RR) = 2.95, 95%CI: 1.64 - 5.29, P = 0.0003), and notably reduced residual urine volume (OR = -8.10, 95%CI: -15.09 to -1.10, P = 0.02). However, stem cell transplantation did not significantly improve motor score (OR = 1.89, 95%CI: -0.25 to 4.03, P = 0.08) or activities of daily living score (OR = 1.12, 95%CI: -1.17 to 4.04, P = 0.45). Furthermore, stem cell transplantation caused a high rate of mild adverse effects (RR = 14.49, 95%CI: 5.34 - 34.08, P < 0.00001); however, these were alleviated in a short time. CONCLUSION Stem cell transplantation was determined to be an efficient and safe treatment for SCI and simultaneously improved sensory and bladder functions. Although associated minor and temporary adverse effects were observed with transplanted stem cells, spinal cord repair and axon remyelination were apparent. More randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up times are needed to further validate the effectiveness of stem cell transplantation in the treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Fan
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jin-zhao Wang
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Xiao-min Lin
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
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Araújo MR, Kyrylenko S, Spejo AB, Castro MV, Ferreira Junior RS, Barraviera B, Oliveira ALR. Transgenic human embryonic stem cells overexpressing FGF2 stimulate neuroprotection following spinal cord ventral root avulsion. Exp Neurol 2017; 294:45-57. [PMID: 28450050 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Revised: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ventral root avulsion (VRA) triggers a strong glial reaction which contributes to neuronal loss, as well as to synaptic detachment. To overcome the degenerative effects of VRA, treatments with neurotrophic factors and stem cells have been proposed. Thus, we investigated neuroprotection elicited by human embryonic stem cells (hESC), modified to overexpress a human fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2), on motoneurons subjected to VRA. Lewis rats were submitted to VRA (L4-L6) and hESC/FGF-2 were applied to the injury site using a fibrin scaffold. The spinal cords were processed to evaluate neuronal survival, synaptic stability, and glial reactivity two weeks post lesion. Then, qRT-PCR was used to assess gene expression of β2-microglobulin (β2m), TNFα, IL1β, IL6 and IL10 in the spinal cord in vivo and FGF2 mRNA levels in hESC in vitro. The results indicate that hESC overexpressing FGF2 significantly rescued avulsed motoneurons, preserving synaptic covering and reducing astroglial reactivity. The cells were also shown to express BDNF and GDNF at the site of injury. Additionally, engraftment of hESC led to a significant reduction in mRNA levels of TNFα at the spinal cord ventral horn, indicating their immunomodulatory properties. Overall, the present data suggest that hESC overexpressing FGF2 are neuroprotective and can shift gene expression towards an anti-inflammatory environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Rocha Araújo
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergiy Kyrylenko
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Aline Barroso Spejo
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mateus Vidigal Castro
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira Junior
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista), São Paulo State, Brazil; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista), São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Benedito Barraviera
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista), São Paulo State, Brazil; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP-Univ. Estadual Paulista), São Paulo State, Brazil
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Blecker D, Elashry MI, Heimann M, Wenisch S, Arnhold S. New Insights into the Neural Differentiation Potential of Canine Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Anat Histol Embryol 2017; 46:304-315. [PMID: 28401575 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) can be obtained from different adipose tissue sources within the body. It is an abundant cell pool, easily accessible, suitable for cultivation and expansion in vitro and preparation for therapeutic approaches. Amongst these therapeutic approaches are tissue engineering and nervous system disorders such as spinal cord injuries. For such treatment, ASCs have to be reliably differentiated in to the neuronal direction. Therefore, we investigated the neural differentiation potential of ASCs using protocols with neurogenic inductors such as valproic acid and forskolin, while dog brain tissue served as control. Morphological changes could already be noticed 1 h after neuronal induction. Gene expression analysis revealed that the neuronal markers nestin and βIII-tubulin as well as MAP2 were expressed after induction of neuronal differentiation. Additionally, the expression of the neurotrophic factors NGF, BDNF and GDNF was determined. Some of the neuronal markers and neurotrophic factors were already expressed in undifferentiated cells. Our findings point out that ASCs can reliably be differentiated into the neuronal lineage; therefore, these cells are a suitable cell source for cell transplantation in disorders of the central nervous system. Follow-up studies would show the clinical benefit of these cells after transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Blecker
- Institute of Veterinary-Anatomy, -Histology and -Embryology, University of Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 98., 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - M I Elashry
- Institute of Veterinary-Anatomy, -Histology and -Embryology, University of Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 98., 35392, Giessen, Germany.,Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - M Heimann
- Institute of Veterinary-Anatomy, -Histology and -Embryology, University of Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 98., 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - S Wenisch
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Small Animal Clinic c/o Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and -Embryology, University of Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 98., 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - S Arnhold
- Institute of Veterinary-Anatomy, -Histology and -Embryology, University of Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 98., 35392, Giessen, Germany
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition, where regenerative failure and cell loss lead to paralysis. The heterogeneous and time-sensitive pathophysiology has made it difficult to target tissue repair. Despite many medical advances, there are no effective regenerative therapies. As stem cells offer multi-targeted and environmentally responsive benefits, cell therapy is a promising treatment approach. Areas covered: This review highlights the cell therapies being investigated for SCI, including Schwann cells, olfactory ensheathing cells, mensenchymal stem/stromal cells, neural precursors, oligodendrocyte progenitors, embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells. Through mechanisms of cell replacement, scaffolding, trophic support and immune modulation, each approach targets unique features of SCI pathology. However, as the injury is multifaceted, it is increasingly recognized that a combinatorial approach will be necessary to treat SCI. Expert opinion: Most preclinical studies, and an increasing number of clinical trials, are finding that single cell therapies have only modest benefits after SCI. These considerations, alongside issues of therapy cost-effectiveness, need to be addressed at the bench. In addition to exploring combinatorial strategies, researchers should consider cell reproducibility and storage parameters when designing animal experiments. Equally important, clinical trials must follow strict regulatory guidelines that will enable transparency of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Badner
- a Department of Genetics and Development , Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network , Toronto , ON , Canada.,b Institute of Medical Sciences , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
| | - Ahad M Siddiqui
- a Department of Genetics and Development , Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network , Toronto , ON , Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- a Department of Genetics and Development , Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network , Toronto , ON , Canada.,b Institute of Medical Sciences , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada.,c Canada Spinal Program , University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital , Toronto , ON , Canada
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44
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Bahmad H, Hadadeh O, Chamaa F, Cheaito K, Darwish B, Makkawi AK, Abou-Kheir W. Modeling Human Neurological and Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Neuronal Differentiation and Its Applications in Neurotrauma. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:50. [PMID: 28293168 PMCID: PMC5329035 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
With the help of several inducing factors, somatic cells can be reprogrammed to become induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSCs) lines. The success is in obtaining iPSCs almost identical to embryonic stem cells (ESCs), therefore various approaches have been tested and ultimately several ones have succeeded. The importance of these cells is in how they serve as models to unveil the molecular pathways and mechanisms underlying several human diseases, and also in its potential roles in the development of regenerative medicine. They further aid in the development of regenerative medicine, autologous cell therapy and drug or toxicity screening. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the recent development in the field of iPSCs research, specifically for modeling human neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, and its applications in neurotrauma. These are mainly characterized by progressive functional or structural neuronal loss rendering them extremely challenging to manage. Many of these diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been explored in vitro. The main purpose is to generate patient-specific iPS cell lines from the somatic cells that carry mutations or genetic instabilities for the aim of studying their differentiation potential and behavior. This new technology will pave the way for future development in the field of stem cell research anticipating its use in clinical settings and in regenerative medicine in order to treat various human diseases, including neurological and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Wassim Abou-Kheir
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of BeirutBeirut, Lebanon
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Iyer NR, Wilems TS, Sakiyama-Elbert SE. Stem cells for spinal cord injury: Strategies to inform differentiation and transplantation. Biotechnol Bioeng 2017; 114:245-259. [PMID: 27531038 PMCID: PMC5642909 DOI: 10.1002/bit.26074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The complex pathology of spinal cord injury (SCI), involving a cascade of secondary events and the formation of inhibitory barriers, hampers regeneration across the lesion site and often results in irreversible loss of motor function. The limited regenerative capacity of endogenous cells after SCI has led to a focus on the development of cell therapies that can confer both neuroprotective and neuroregenerative benefits. Stem cells have emerged as a candidate cell source because of their ability to self-renew and differentiate into a multitude of specialized cell types. While ethical and safety concerns impeded the use of stem cells in the past, advances in isolation and differentiation methods have largely mitigated these issues. A confluence of work in stem cell biology, genetics, and developmental neurobiology has informed the directed differentiation of specific spinal cell types. After transplantation, these stem cell-derived populations can replace lost cells, provide trophic support, remyelinate surviving axons, and form relay circuits that contribute to functional recovery. Further refinement of stem cell differentiation and transplantation methods, including combinatorial strategies that involve biomaterial scaffolds and drug delivery, is critical as stem cell-based treatments enter clinical trials. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 245-259. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha R Iyer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton St., Stop C0800 BME 3.314, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Thomas S Wilems
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton St., Stop C0800 BME 3.314, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Shelly E Sakiyama-Elbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton St., Stop C0800 BME 3.314, Austin, Texas 78712
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Yousefi B, Sanooghi D, Faghihi F, Joghataei MT, Latifi N. Evaluation of motor neuron differentiation potential of human umbilical cord blood- derived mesenchymal stem cells, in vitro. J Chem Neuroanat 2017; 81:18-26. [PMID: 28153469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2016] [Revised: 12/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Many people suffer from spinal cord injuries annually. These deficits usually threaten the quality of life of patients. As a postpartum medically waste product, human Umbilical Cord Blood (UCB) is a rich source of stem cells with self- renewal properties and neural differentiation capacity which made it useful in regenerative medicine. Since there is no report on potential of human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells into motor neurons, we set out to evaluate the differentiation properties of these cells into motor neuron-like cells through administration of Retinoic Acid(RA), Sonic Hedgehog(Shh) and BDNF using a three- step in vitro procedure. The results were evaluated using Real-time PCR, Flowcytometry and Immunocytochemistry for two weeks. Our data showed that the cells changed into bipolar morphology and could express markers related to motor neuron; including Hb-9, Pax-6, Islet-1, NF-H, ChAT at the level of mRNA and protein. We could also quantitatively evaluate the expression of Islet-1, ChAT and NF-H at 7 and 14days post- induction using flowcytometry. It is concluded that human UCB-MSCs is potent to express motor neuron- related markers in the presence of RA, Shh and BDNF through a three- step protocol; thus it could be a suitable cell candidate for regeneration of motor neurons in spinal cord injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Yousefi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davood Sanooghi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Faghihi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Taghi Joghataei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nourahmad Latifi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ruzicka J, Machova-Urdzikova L, Gillick J, Amemori T, Romanyuk N, Karova K, Zaviskova K, Dubisova J, Kubinova S, Murali R, Sykova E, Jhanwar-Uniyal M, Jendelova P. A Comparative Study of Three Different Types of Stem Cells for Treatment of Rat Spinal Cord Injury. Cell Transplant 2016; 26:585-603. [PMID: 27938489 DOI: 10.3727/096368916x693671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Three different sources of human stem cells-bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs), neural progenitors (NPs) derived from immortalized spinal fetal cell line (SPC-01), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-were compared in the treatment of a balloon-induced spinal cord compression lesion in rats. One week after lesioning, the rats received either BM-MSCs (intrathecally) or NPs (SPC-01 cells or iPSC-NPs, both intraspinally), or saline. The rats were assessed for their locomotor skills (BBB, flat beam test, and rotarod). Morphometric analyses of spared white and gray matter, axonal sprouting, and glial scar formation, as well as qPCR and Luminex assay, were conducted to detect endogenous gene expression, while inflammatory cytokine levels were performed to evaluate the host tissue response to stem cell therapy. The highest locomotor recovery was observed in iPSC-NP-grafted animals, which also displayed the highest amount of preserved white and gray matter. Grafted iPSC-NPs and SPC-01 cells significantly increased the number of growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43+) axons, reduced astrogliosis, downregulated Casp3 expression, and increased IL-6 and IL-12 levels. hMSCs transiently decreased levels of inflammatory IL-2 and TNF-α. These findings correlate with the short survival of hMSCs, while NPs survived for 2 months and matured slowly into glia- and tissue-specific neuronal precursors. SPC-01 cells differentiated more in astroglial phenotypes with a dense structure of the implant, whereas iPSC-NPs displayed a more neuronal phenotype with a loose structure of the graft. We concluded that the BBB scores of iPSC-NP- and hMSC-injected rats were superior to the SPC-01-treated group. The iPSC-NP treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) provided the highest recovery of locomotor function due to robust graft survival and its effect on tissue sparing, reduction of glial scarring, and increased axonal sprouting.
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Purmorphamine as a Shh Signaling Activator Small Molecule Promotes Motor Neuron Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Cultured on Nanofibrous PCL Scaffold. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:5668-5675. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0090-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Efficient Generation of Functionally Active Spinal Cord Neurons from Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:788-803. [PMID: 27566610 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0057-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) are hitherto regarded as perspective candidates for cell transplantation in clinical therapies for multilevel spinal cord injury and function restoration. However, the extreme drawbacks of NSCs available for injury transplantation still represent a significant bottleneck in neural regeneration medicine. Therefore, it is essential to establish a suitable cell reservoir as an issue-free alternative. Here, we demonstrate that spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) derived from rat testis robustly give rise to terminally differentiated, functionally mature spinal cord neurons by using an optimized differentiation protocol. After performing a 3-week in vitro differentiation procedure, most cells exhibited neural morphological features and were Tuj-1 positive. Of note, approximately 60 % of the obtained cells coexpressed choline acetyltransferase (CHAT), acetylcholinesterase (AchE), and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). More importantly, apart from acquisition of neural antigenic and biochemical properties, nearly all neurons efficiently exhibited in vitro functionality similar to wild-type neurons, such as synapse formation, increased neuronal calcium influx, and electrophysiology. This is the first report revealing consistent and reproducible generation of large amounts of functional neurons from SSCs. Collectively, this system is suitable for studies of SSC transdifferentiation into neuronal cells and can provide sufficient neurons for the treatment of spinal cord injury as well as for genetic and small molecule screenings.
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Hachem LD, Mothe AJ, Tator CH. Glutamate Increases In Vitro Survival and Proliferation and Attenuates Oxidative Stress-Induced Cell Death in Adult Spinal Cord-Derived Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells via Non-NMDA Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors. Stem Cells Dev 2016; 25:1223-33. [PMID: 27316370 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2015.0389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to a cascade of secondary chemical insults, including oxidative stress and glutamate excitotoxicity, which damage host neurons and glia. Transplantation of exogenous neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) has shown promise in enhancing regeneration after SCI, although survival of transplanted cells remains poor. Understanding the response of NSPCs to the chemical mediators of secondary injury is essential in finding therapies to enhance survival. We examined the in vitro effects of glutamate and glutamate receptor agonists on adult rat spinal cord-derived NSPCs. NSPCs isolated from the periventricular region of the adult rat spinal cord were exposed to various concentrations of glutamate for 96 h. We found that glutamate treatment (500 μM) for 96 h significantly increased live cell numbers, reduced cell death, and increased proliferation, but did not significantly alter cell phenotype. Concurrent glutamate treatment (500 μM) in the setting of H2O2 exposure (500 μM) for 10 h increased NSPC survival compared to H2O2 exposure alone. The effects of glutamate on NSPCs were blocked by the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)/kainate receptor antagonist GYKI-52466, but not by the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor antagonist MK-801 or DL-AP5, or the mGluR3 antagonist LY-341495. Furthermore, treatment of NSPCs with AMPA, kainic acid, or the kainate receptor-specific agonist (RS)-2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-tert-butylisoxazol-4-yl)propanoic acid mimicked the responses seen with glutamate both alone and in the setting of oxidative stress. These findings offer important insights into potential mechanisms to enhance NSPC survival and implicate a potential role for glutamate in promoting NSPC survival and proliferation after traumatic SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laureen D Hachem
- 1 Krembil Neuroscience Centre, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network , Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrea J Mothe
- 1 Krembil Neuroscience Centre, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network , Toronto, Canada
| | - Charles H Tator
- 1 Krembil Neuroscience Centre, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network , Toronto, Canada .,2 Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada
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