England-based University of Bristol researchers reported findings from their continued research on nerve regeneration for spinal cord injuries.
Here are five takeaways:
1. Previously, the researchers proved olfactory ensheathing cells could undergo genetic modification to secrete the treatment enzyme, chondroitinase ABC. ChABC is necessary to break down the glial scar at the spinal cord injury site. The enzyme also encourages nerve regrowth.
2. This study involved researchers transplanting genetically modified olfactory ensheathing cells into rodents with SCI. The translated cells yielded ChABC enzyme secretion, which removed some of the glial scars.
3. The process in the rodents created increased nerve sprouting in their spinal cords.
4. The study authors noted their findings serve as a proof-of-concept for this cell transplant process in successfully delivering the ChABC enzyme.
5. The researchers concluded additional research is needed to assess the genetically modified olfactory ensheathing cells' impact in chronic injury models.