Multimodal therapy strategies based on hydrogels for the repair of spinal cord injury

Military Medical Research, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40779-022-00376-1 · Published: April 30, 2022

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious traumatic disease of the central nervous system, which can give rise to the loss of motor and sensory function. Hydrogels with good biocompatibility and biodegradability can well imitate the extracellular matrix in the microenvironment of spinal cord. In this review, hydrogel-based multimodal therapeutic strategies to repair SCI are provided, and a combination of hydrogel scaffolds and other therapeutic modalities are discussed, with particular emphasis on the repair mechanism of SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Hydrogels can simulate the ECM in the cystic cavity to achieve the better therapeutic effect.
2
Injectable hydrogels are fluid and can be easily transported to the injured tissue.
3
Composite scaffolds are generally prepared by adding nanoparticles, fibers, nanotubes and clay minerals into hydrogels.

Research Summary

This paper mainly summarizes multimodal therapy strategies based on hydrogels for the repair of SCI. The therapy model of different types of hydrogels which are served as biological scaffolds and combined with other nutritional factors, small molecules and various stem cells for SCI is more common now. Hydrogels with excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability are considered as a bridge for post-SCI repair.

Practical Implications

Drug Delivery

Hydrogels can act as drug reservoirs, allowing for sustained release of therapeutic drugs at the SCI site, reducing the frequency and total dose of administration.

Tissue Engineering

Hydrogel scaffolds can be implanted into the SCI site, promoting the formation of new neurons and axonal regeneration, inhibiting glial scar formation, and decreasing secondary injury.

Cell-Based Therapy

Hydrogels can serve as cell carriers, enhancing cell survival and implantation rate in the injured site, promoting tissue regeneration by releasing neuro-protective factors.

Study Limitations

1
The instability in shape and ease of flowing out of the SCI site of injectable hydrogels.
2
The mechanical properties of hydrogel scaffolds need to be improved by combining with other materials.
3
Most of the current studies have been conducted in SCI models, but it is unknown whether the same effect will be seen in the clinic.

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