New York City-based Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai researchers have identified a “molecular switch” that may be capable of helping improve recovery after peripheral nerve or spinal cord injuries.
During the study, published in Nature, researchers found that a protein called aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) limited the ability of injured neurons to regenerate. When AHR was blocked or removed, neurons showed increased axon regrowth and improved recovery in mouse models of peripheral nerve and spinal cord injury, according to an April 1 news release.
Researchers concluded that AHR functions like a “brake,” shifting neurons toward managing stress after injury by maintaining protein quality control, but that this process also reduced the production of proteins needed for regeneration. Strategically inhibiting AHR shifted neurons toward growth-related activity and activated repair pathways.
Existing drugs that inhibit AHR are already in clinical trials for other conditions, creating potential for future applications in neurological injuries, the release said.
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
