Human dental pulp stem cells transplantation combined with treadmill training in rats after traumatic spinal cord injury

Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 2016 · DOI: 10.1590/1414-431X20165319 · Published: September 1, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This study explores a new treatment for spinal cord injuries using stem cells from human teeth combined with exercise. Researchers tested if transplanting stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) and treadmill training could help rats recover from spinal cord injuries. The research revealed that using stem cells improved motor function and reduced tissue damage in the injured spinal cords. However, treadmill training alone did not lead to functional improvements, challenging the initial hypothesis. These findings suggest that SHEDs transplantation might be a promising therapeutic approach for spinal cord injuries, potentially due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Further research is needed to optimize the use of treadmill training in such treatments.

Study Duration

6 weeks

Participants

54 Wistar rats

Evidence Level

Level II, Experimental study

Key Findings

1
SHEDs treatment alone or in combination with treadmill training promoted functional recovery, with BBB scores significantly higher than the SCI group.
2
SHEDs treatment reduced the cystic cavity area and glial scar formation in the spinal cord tissue, while also increasing neurofilament density.
3
Treadmill training alone did not demonstrate functional effectiveness or significant tissue effects in the treatment of spinal cord injury.

Research Summary

The study investigated the effectiveness of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) transplantation combined with treadmill training in rats with experimental spinal cord injury (SCI). SHEDs treatment, alone or combined with treadmill training, improved functional recovery and reduced tissue damage, including cystic cavity area and glial scar formation. Contrary to the hypothesis, treadmill training alone did not promote functional recovery, but SHEDs showed neuroprotective effects, reducing TNF-a levels and improving motor function after SCI.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

SHEDs transplantation holds promise as a potential therapy for spinal cord injuries due to its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects.

Refinement of Rehabilitation Strategies

The study suggests a need to refine motor training protocols, particularly concerning the timing and intensity of treadmill training, to maximize therapeutic benefits.

Further Research

Additional research is warranted to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action of SHEDs and optimize combined treatment strategies for spinal cord injuries.

Study Limitations

1
The treadmill training protocol may not have been optimal for promoting functional recovery in this specific SCI model.
2
The BBB scale has limitations in detecting subtle improvements in locomotor function, especially at higher scores.
3
The study was conducted on rats, and further research is needed to confirm the findings in humans.

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