Neural Regen Res, 2013 · DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.17.006 · Published: June 1, 2013
Spinal cord injuries often lead to irreversible damage and secondary complications, including the formation of glial scars, which hinder nerve regeneration. This study explores whether X-irradiation can reduce glial scar formation and improve recovery. The researchers investigated the effects of X-irradiation at different times after spinal cord injury in rats. They measured glial scar formation and hind limb motor function to find the optimal time for X-irradiation. The study found that X-irradiation, specifically at 7 days post-injury, reduced glial scar formation and improved motor function recovery in rats, suggesting it could be a beneficial treatment window.
The study suggests that X-irradiation is most effective when administered around 7 days post-spinal cord injury, which can guide clinical treatment protocols.
X-irradiation's ability to reduce inflammation, as indicated by the decrease in ED-1 expression, highlights its potential for mitigating secondary damage after spinal cord injury.
The observed improvement in motor function, measured by the BBB score, supports the use of X-irradiation as a means to enhance recovery and rehabilitation outcomes.