Spinal cord injuries are devastating, often leaving patients paralyzed below the site of injury. Unlike the peripheral nervous system, the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) has a limited ability to repair itself effectively. However, recent research has shed light on the potential for spinal cord nerves to regenerate and restore function.
The Challenge of Spinal Cord Nerve Regeneration
Traditionally, it was believed that spinal cord nerves could not regenerate due to the complex nature of the injury and the inhibitory environment created by scar tissue formation. The neurons in the central nervous system do not spontaneously heal themselves, unlike those in the peripheral nervous system.
However, a study published in the *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences* in 2018 identified key steps taken by peripheral nerves as they regenerate. The researchers found that for injured peripheral nerves to repair themselves, certain genes need to be turned off, while others need to be activated. This process allows the neuron to transition back to a less mature state, re-engage developmental programs, and regrow.
Strategies for Spinal Cord Nerve Regeneration
Researchers are exploring various strategies to boost the spinal cord’s capacity to heal and promote nerve regeneration:
Boosting cellular energy levels: A study published in Cell Metabolism in 2020 found that mice engineered to lack a protein that anchors mitochondria in injured nerve cells showed regrowth of those cells after a spinal cord injury. The findings suggest that enhancing energy production could help damaged nerve cells repair themselves.
Relieving pressure on the spinal cord: Surgical procedures can relieve pressure on the spinal cord and prevent further damage from progressing to other areas. This approach is often used in conjunction with other therapies to promote nerve regeneration.
Compensating for cord damage: While not directly repairing the spinal cord, some strategies aim to compensate for cord damage by providing alternative means of function. For example, electronic systems that regulate muscles by sending electrical signals through implanted wires can restore certain hand movements or control over the bladder and bowel.
Early rehabilitative therapy: Many clinicians believe that initiating rehabilitative therapy early, such as exercising the limbs soon after the spine is stabilized, may enhance motor and sensory function in limbs. While not rigorously tested in humans, animal studies support this approach.