The effect of mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on the recovery of bladder and hindlimb function after spinal cord contusion in rats

BMC Neuroscience, 2010 · DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-11-119 · Published: September 16, 2010

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the effect of human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSCs) transplantation on the restoration of neurogenic bladder and impaired hindlimb function after spinal cord contusion in rats. The study also looks at the relationship between neurotrophic factors (BDNF and NT-3) and bladder and hindlimb functions. hMSC transplantation was effective in reducing inflammatory reaction after spinal cord contusion of rats. However, it wasn't sufficient to recover locomotor and bladder dysfunction. BDNF and NT-3 levels in the spinal cord and bladder were not increased 28 and 56 days after hMSC transplantation. The study found that hMSCs reduced inflammation but did not differentiate into neurons or astrocytes. Also, hMSCs alone were likely insufficient to restore bladder function and neurotrophic factor levels did not change after hMSC transplantation.

Study Duration

56 days

Participants

60 Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
hMSC transplantation reduced ED1 positive macrophages (inflammatory response) in the injured spinal cord compared to control groups.
2
Ladder test showed more rapid restoration of hindlimb function in hMSC group than in control groups.
3
Urodynamic study revealed that neurogenic bladder was not improved in either hMSC or control groups.

Research Summary

The study investigated the effects of hMSC transplantation on neurogenic bladder and locomotor function recovery in rats with spinal cord injury, also examining the relationship with endogenous neurotrophic factors. The results showed that hMSC transplantation reduced inflammation in the injured spinal cord, but locomotor improvement wasn't obvious, and neurogenic bladder and the levels of BDNF and NT-3 remained unchanged. Limitations included that the BDNF and NT-3 mRNA and protein levels were not checked at acute or subacute stages.

Practical Implications

Combination Therapies Needed

Stem cell transplantation alone may not be sufficient for comprehensive recovery after spinal cord injury, suggesting the need for combined approaches.

Targeting Inflammation

hMSCs can reduce inflammation, which is beneficial, but additional strategies are needed to address locomotor and bladder dysfunction.

Further Research on Neurotrophic Factors

Further research should focus on when and how neurotrophic factors such as BDNF and NT-3 change following hMSC transplantation.

Study Limitations

1
BDNF and NT-3 levels were not checked at acute or subacute stages.
2
Stem cell transplantation may not be sufficient to restore function.
3
Bladder dysfunction following spinal cord injury was severe enough not to recover spontaneously in control group.

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