Researchers at The Ohio State University have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of spinal cord repair. By harnessing the potential of pericytes—tiny cells found in the body’s smallest blood vessels—a new strategy for promoting spinal cord regeneration has been developed.
In a series of mouse experiments, scientists introduced a specific recombinant protein to the site of a spinal cord injury, where pericytes had accumulated. This protein triggered a transformation in the pericytes, leading them to create “cellular bridges” that supported the regeneration of axons—the long, slender extensions of nerve cells responsible for transmitting messages.
The results were remarkable. Mice that received a single injection of the growth-factor protein showed axon regrowth and regained movement in their hind limbs. Even experiments involving human cells suggested that this approach could be applied beyond mice.
The study, published in the journal Molecular Therapy, challenges previous beliefs that pericytes hinder spinal cord injury recovery. Instead of removing these cells from the injury site, researchers found that exposing them to a protein called platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) could stimulate their ability to support axon regeneration.
Further experiments showed that pericytes, when combined with PDGF-BB, rearranged fibronectin—a crucial protein for tissue repair—and changed shape to form elongated structures. These structures provided a pathway for regenerated axons to follow, bypassing the injury site.
In animal studies, a single dose of PDGF-BB injected at the injury site led to robust axon regrowth and improved movement in injured mice. The treatment also reduced inflammation and prevented the development of neuropathic pain, a common complication of spinal cord injuries.
The researchers are now planning to explore the optimal timing and dosage of PDGF-BB administration for maximum effectiveness. They also aim to develop a time-released delivery system for the treatment.
This groundbreaking research opens up new possibilities for spinal cord repair and has implications for other neurological conditions such as brain injury, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases. By targeting the cellular environment surrounding a spinal cord injury, this innovative approach could revolutionize the field of regenerative medicine.
