The therapeutic mechanism of transcranial iTBS on nerve regeneration and functional recovery in rats with complete spinal cord transection

This study investigates how a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called transcranial intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) can help rats recover from complete spinal cord injuries. The researchers explored iTBS's impact on nerve regeneration and motor function repair. The study found that iTBS reduced inflammation and neuronal apoptosis in the sensorimotor cortex (SMC) and spinal cord, creating a better environment for nerve regeneration. It also promoted the growth of nerve fibers and improved synaptic plasticity, which is essential for learning and recovery. Ultimately, iTBS helped the rats regain some motor function in their hindlimbs. The researchers suggest that iTBS activates specific neural pathways, leading to neuroprotection, axonal regeneration, and the reconstruction of motor pathways, offering a potential therapeutic approach for spinal cord injuries.

• 1
  Transcranial iTBS reduces inflammation and neuronal apoptosis in the sensorimotor cortex (SMC) following spinal cord injury.
• 2
  iTBS promotes axonal regeneration and synaptic plasticity in the injured spinal cord.
• 3
  Transcranial iTBS enhances motor function recovery in rats with complete spinal cord transection, likely through the activation of specific descending motor pathways.