Researchers of the Northwestern University (Illinois, United States) developed a injectable therapy what do you use synthetic molecules ‘dancers’ to reverse paralysis and repair tissue after severe spinal cord injury in mice. The results of the experimental study are presented in the latest issue of the journal. Science.
Samuel I. Stupp, leader of the work, explains to SINC that the molecules used “are synthetic peptides which include a biological signal that can activate the repair and regeneration of damaged tissue”. The team managed a single injection in the tissues surrounding the spinal cord of paralyzed rodents and, four weeks later, the animals were able to walk again.
The molecules used are synthetic peptides that include a biological signal to activate the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues in the spinal cord.
Samuel I. Stupp, Labor Leader
The experimental therapy developed by Stupp and his team “consists of [inyectar] nanoscale filaments containing hundreds of thousands of synthetic peptides linked together. this architecture mimics the natural matrix which involves the cells of the spinal cord and other tissues”.
The researcher adds: “The filaments dissolve first in water when injected, but as soon as they come into contact with the living tissue of the marrow, the liquid gels form a matrix that resembles the natural matrix that surrounds all cells.”
The main finding was that “when the molecules that make up the filaments that carry the regeneration and repair signals move, they are much more effective. This was not known before, hence the progress that our therapy represents”, emphasizes Stupp.
constant movement of molecules
This regenerative medicine specialist explains that “the receptors on neurons and other cells are in constant motion. Therefore, the crucial innovation was to control the collective movement of more than 100,000 molecules within the nanofibers. Making them move, ‘dance’ or even temporarily jump out of these structures, known as supramolecular polymers, to more effectively connect with the receivers “
The main innovation has been to control the collective movement of more than 100,000 molecules inside the nanofibers. Get them to move, ‘dance’ or even jump to connect more effectively with the receivers
Spinal cord damage caused by traffic-accidents, explosions, gunshots or sports injuries are usually irreversible. However, says Stupp, “our therapy sends signals to damaged or severed neurons in the spinal cord that instruct them to regenerate, build new blood vessels, and form myelin, a substance that engages neurons to send electrical signals between the brain and the rest of the body in both directions and allows us to feel and move.”
In addition, he highlights that this treatment “also reduces the formation of scars that prevent regeneration of damaged neurons, regenerating the axons it cuts – the electrical cables that carry the signals – and helps save the motor neurons, which are what allow us to move. “
Once the therapy works, the injected materials biodegrade into nutrients for the cells within 12 weeks and then completely disappear from the body with no noticeable side effects.
The experimental treatment sends signals to damaged or severed neurons in the spinal cord, telling them to regenerate, build new blood vessels and form myelin.
“The goal of our research is to find a solution that prevents people from becoming paralyzed after trauma or illness,” says Stupp. “This remains a big challenge because the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, does not have a significant capacity to repair itself after an injury or after the appearance of a degenerative disease”.
Application to FDA for human testing
The leader of the work also comments to SINC that in 2022 they plan to contact the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States to indicate the necessary requirements to “initiate tests in human patients”.
Stupp believes that the concept developed in this study can also be used in future therapies for other diseases. “The central nervous system tissues that we successfully regenerate in the injured spinal cord [de ratones] are similar to those in the brain affected by blows and neurodegenerative diseases, like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s”, he concludes.
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