Further evidence of olfactory ensheathing glia facilitating axonal regeneration after a complete spinal cord transection

Exp Neurol, 2011 · DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2011.01.007 · Published: May 1, 2011

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether olfactory ensheathing glia (OEG) can help regenerate axons after a complete spinal cord injury in rats. OEG were injected into the spinal cords of rats after a complete transection. The rats underwent step training with a robotic system and received drug treatments to help with recovery. The researchers then tested the rats' ability to step and climb, and used electrical stimulation to see if axons had regenerated across the injury site. The results showed that rats injected with OEG had improved stepping and climbing abilities, and also showed signs of axon regeneration. This suggests that OEG can help the spinal cord repair itself after a complete injury.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

42 Wistar Hannover rats

Evidence Level

Level II; Experimental study

Key Findings

1
OEG-injected rats showed recovery of motor evoked potentials (MEP), indicating functional regeneration of axons across the complete spinal cord transection.
2
Improved hindlimb function after a complete transection was coupled with OEG-facilitated functional regeneration of axons.
3
The recovery of MEPs in OEG rats was modulated by noradrenergic, serotonergic, and glycinergic receptor antagonists, suggesting involvement of these neurotransmitter systems in the newly formed connections.

Research Summary

This study provides evidence that olfactory ensheathing glia (OEG) can facilitate axonal regeneration after a complete spinal cord transection in rats, leading to improved hindlimb function. The researchers used a combination of behavioral, electrophysiological, and pharmacological assessments to demonstrate the functional reconnection of axons across the transection site in OEG-treated rats. The findings suggest that OEG transplantation, combined with step training and pharmacological interventions, can promote spinal cord repair and improve motor function after severe spinal cord injury.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

OEG transplantation could be a potential therapeutic strategy for promoting axonal regeneration and functional recovery after complete spinal cord injury.

Combination Therapy

Combining OEG transplantation with rehabilitation strategies like step training and pharmacological interventions may enhance the effectiveness of spinal cord injury treatments.

Neurotransmitter Targeting

Targeting specific neurotransmitter systems (noradrenergic, serotonergic, and glycinergic) may further improve functional outcomes in OEG-mediated spinal cord repair.

Study Limitations

1
The effects of regenerated axons on the recovery of stepping ability appear to be inconsistent.
2
The newly regenerated, functional connections established in a complete spinal adult rat are not yet understood.
3
The mechanisms of OEG-mediated axonal regeneration and functional recovery are not fully elucidated.

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