Mesenchymal Stem Cell Graft Improves Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury in Adult Rats through Neurotrophic and Pro-Angiogenic Actions

PLoS ONE, 2012 · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0039500 · Published: June 20, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to improve functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) in adult rats. The researchers grafted MSCs intravenously after a spinal cord compression injury and assessed their impact on functional recovery and the underlying mechanisms of action. The findings suggest that MSCs promote recovery through their secretions, influencing neurotrophic and pro-angiogenic processes, rather than by integrating into the host tissue.

Study Duration

4 weeks

Participants

50 adult female Wistar rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Intravenously grafted MSCs induced an early improvement in open field and grid navigation scores in rats with spinal cord injuries.
2
The study found no evidence of MSC integration within the host spinal cord tissue, suggesting the cells act through secreted factors.
3
MSC grafts significantly increased NGF expression in the injured spinal cord tissue and promoted vascularization, as evidenced by a higher density of blood vessels within the lesioned area.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates that intravenous administration of MSCs improves functional recovery in rats after spinal cord injury. The beneficial effects of MSCs are likely mediated by paracrine mechanisms, specifically the secretion of neurotrophic factors like NGF and the promotion of angiogenesis, rather than cell integration and differentiation. The study highlights the potential of MSC-based therapies for SCI, emphasizing the importance of their secretory functions in promoting tissue sparing, vascularization, and ultimately, functional recovery.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

MSCs offer a promising therapeutic approach for spinal cord injury due to their ability to promote functional recovery.

Paracrine Mechanisms

The study underscores the importance of paracrine signaling in MSC-mediated repair, suggesting strategies to enhance secretion of beneficial factors.

Clinical Translation

Intravenous delivery of MSCs is a safe and less invasive method for treating spinal cord injury, facilitating clinical translation.

Study Limitations

1
The study did not observe significant axonal regrowth with GAP-43 staining.
2
The precise mechanisms by which MSCs influence angiogenesis and tissue sparing require further investigation.
3
Homing of MSCs to the injury site was not observed, limiting understanding of cell-tissue interactions.

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