Systemic treatment with a novel basic fibroblast growth factor mimic small-molecule compound boosts functional recovery after spinal cord injury

PLoS ONE, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0236050 · Published: July 17, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Pharmacology Neurology

Simple Explanation

This research investigates a new drug, SUN13837, which mimics the beneficial effects of a natural growth factor called bFGF, but without the unwanted side effects. The study demonstrates that SUN13837 can help nerve cells grow and protect them from damage, potentially aiding recovery after spinal cord injury. The drug was found to promote functional recovery in rats with spinal cord injuries, suggesting it could be a promising treatment for similar conditions in humans.

Study Duration

8 weeks

Participants

Female Slc: SD rats (Japan SLC, Inc.)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
SUN13837 promotes neurite outgrowth in primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons, similar to bFGF.
2
SUN13837 exhibits neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced neuronal death, and this effect is mediated by FGFR-1.
3
Systemic administration of SUN13837 significantly enhances the recovery of hind limb motor function in a rat SCI model.

Research Summary

The study introduces SUN13837, a novel small-molecule compound that mimics the beneficial effects of bFGF without its proliferative side effects. In vitro experiments demonstrated that SUN13837 promotes neurite outgrowth and provides neuroprotection via FGFR-1 activation. In vivo studies using a rat SCI model showed that systemic administration of SUN13837 significantly improved hind limb motor function and promoted axon regeneration.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential for SCI

SUN13837 could offer a new therapeutic avenue for spinal cord injury by promoting functional recovery and axon regeneration.

Selective FGFR Activation

The compound's selective activation of FGFR without inducing cell proliferation may minimize potential side effects associated with bFGF treatment.

Drug Development

SUN13837's favorable pharmacokinetic properties, including oral bioavailability and brain distribution, make it a promising candidate for drug development targeting CNS disorders.

Systemic treatment with a novel basic fibroblast growth factor mimic small-molecule compound boosts functional recovery after spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential for SCI

Selective FGFR Activation

Drug Development

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Systemic treatment with a novel basic fibroblast growth factor mimic small-molecule compound boosts functional recovery after spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential for SCI

Selective FGFR Activation

Drug Development

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?