Mesenchymal stem cells, extracellular vesicles, and transcranial magnetic stimulation for ferroptosis after spinal cord injury

Neural Regen Res, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/1673-5374.367838 · Published: January 30, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Genetics Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to nerve cell death, including a process called ferroptosis, which worsens the condition. Current treatments are not very effective in stopping this process. Emerging therapies like mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), extracellular vesicles (EVs), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) show promise in reversing the negative effects of ferroptosis after SCI. This review examines how these therapies might work to inhibit ferroptosis, potentially improving outcomes for spinal cord injury patients. More research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Ferroptosis, a form of cell death, significantly contributes to neurological dysfunction following spinal cord injury.
2
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), extracellular vesicles (EVs), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can influence factors related to ferroptosis and reverse adverse outcomes of SCI.
3
Inhibiting ferroptosis may promote the recovery of neurological function after spinal cord injury, making it a potential therapeutic target.

Research Summary

Spinal cord injury leads to neuronal death, with ferroptosis being a key contributor to dysfunction. Emerging treatments like MSC, EV, and TMS therapy offer hope by potentially inhibiting neuronal death, including ferroptosis. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and confirm the efficacy of these therapies in treating SCI.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Target Identification

Ferroptosis can be regarded as an important mechanism in the death of spinal cord neurons, making it a viable target for therapeutic interventions.

Development of Combination Therapies

Combining EVs with other methods, such as degradable bioscaffolds, can improve the effectiveness of SCI treatment and reduce complications.

Refinement of Cell Therapies

Addressing the heterogeneity of MSCs and EVs, and standardizing their separation methods, can improve the reliability and efficacy of cell-based therapies.

Study Limitations

1
The exact mechanisms of ferroptosis are still unclear.
2
Studies on the treatment of ferroptosis using MSCs and EVs have mainly been performed in the context of cancer treatment.
3
The field of TMS inhibition of ferroptosis is even less well studied.

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