Transplantation strategies to promote repair of the injured spinal cord

J Rehabil Res Dev. 2003 Jul-Aug;40(4 Suppl 1):55-62. doi: 10.1682/jrrd.2003.08.0055.

Abstract

This review describes the results of the transplantation of Schwann cells and olfactory ensheathing glia in combination with other interventions. The complete transection injury model was used to test the combination of Schwann cell bridges with methylprednisolone, neurotrophins, or olfactory ensheathing glia. The contusion injury model was used to compare Schwann cell and olfactory ensheathing glia transplantation and to examine the results of combining Schwann cell transplants with elevated levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate. The combination strategies were more effective than cell transplantation alone. The improved regeneration response usually involved a reduction in secondary tissue loss, axonal regeneration from brainstem neurons, an increase in myelinated fibers in the transplant, the exit of regenerated fibers from the transplant into the contiguous cord, and an improvement in locomotor function.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Axons / physiology
  • Contusions / surgery
  • Cyclic AMP / blood
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Methylprednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Nerve Regeneration / physiology
  • Schwann Cells / transplantation*
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / surgery*
  • Wound Healing / physiology

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Cyclic AMP
  • Methylprednisolone