Modulating Pro-inflammatory Cytokines, Tissue Damage Magnitude, and Motor Deficit in Spinal Cord Injury with Subventricular Zone-Derived Extracellular Vesicles

Role of liver X receptor in multiple sclerosis: A long furtive life behind a barrier

Liver X receptors (LXRs) are nuclear receptors that function as transcription factors regulating cholesterol metabolism and are implicated in multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis. This mini-review aims to elucidate the potential role of LXRs in MS neuropathology. MS is the most prevalent inflammatory and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), impacting both the brain and spinal cord. Furthermore, alterations in brain cholesterol metabolism in MS can modify the functional activity and immune response of LXRs, which are implicated in MS neuropathology. Dysregulation of LXRs and cholesterol homeostasis is associated with the pathogenesis of MS. LXRs play a critical role in regulating the myelination of nerve sheaths, and defects in LXR function may contribute to the progression of MS. LXRs have immunomodulatory effects, including inhibition of the proliferation of lymphocytes, preventing contact of self-antigens to T cells, and regulating the apoptotic process of T cells. LXRs regulate the activity of microglia, which have pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties involved in immune regulation and clearance of debris as well as the remyelination process. LXRs regulate the functional activity of glial cells and prevent glial cell-mediated neurodegeneration. LXRs have an important role in the regulation of neuroinflammation during MS neuropathology. LXRs may prevent the progression of neuroinflammation in MS by inhibiting the NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathways. In conclusion, LXRs play a crucial role in MS neuropathology by mitigating neuroinflammation. These findings proposed that LXR agonists, through modulation of cholesterol homeostasis and inflammatory response, could be effective in the management of MS.

Platelet Extracellular Vesicles as Natural Delivery Vehicles for Mitochondrial Dysfunction Therapy?

Mitochondria are vital for energy production, metabolic regulation, and cellular signaling. Their dysfunction is strongly implicated in neurological, cardiovascular, and muscular degenerative diseases, where energy deficits and oxidative stress accelerate disease progression. Platelet extracellular vesicles (PEVs), once called "platelet dust", have emerged as promising agents for mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction. Like other extracellular vesicles (EVs), PEVs carry diverse molecular cargo and surface markers implicated in disease processes and therapeutic efficacy. Notably, they may possibly contain intact or partially functional mitochondrial components, making them tentatively attractive for targeting mitochondrial damage. Although direct research on PEVs-mediated mitochondrial rescue remains limited, current evidence suggests that PEVs can modulate diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and potentially enhance mitochondrial health. This review explores the therapeutic potential of PEVs in neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disorders, highlighting their role in restoring mitochondrial health. By examining recent advancements in PEVs research, we aim to shed light on novel strategies for utilizing PEVs as therapeutic agents. Our goal is to underscore the importance of further fundamental and applied research into PEVs-based interventions, as innovative tools for combating a wide range of diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.

Neurological recovery and neurogenesis by curcumin sustained-release system cross-linked with an acellular spinal cord scaffold in rat spinal cord injury: Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome pathway

In the context of treating spinal cord injury (SCI), the modulation of inflammatory responses, and the creation of a suitable region for tissue regeneration may present a promising approach. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of curcumin (Cur)-loaded bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (Cur-BSA NPs) cross-linked with an acellular spinal cord scaffold (ASCS) on the functional recovery in a rat model of SCI. We developed an ASCS using chemical and physical methods. Cur-BSA, and blank (B-BSA) NPs were fabricated and cross-linked with ASCS via EDC-NHS, resulting in the production of Cur-ASCS and B-ASCS. We assessed the properties of scaffolds and NPs as well as their cross-links. Finally, using a male rat hemisection model of SCI, we investigated the consequences of the resulting scaffolds. The inflammatory markers, neuroregeneration, and functional recovery were evaluated. Our results showed that Cur was efficiently entrapped at the rate of 42% ± 1.3 in the NPs. Compared to B-ASCS, Cur-ASCS showed greater effectiveness in the promotion of motor recovery. The implantation of both scaffolds could increase the migration of neural stem cells (Nestin- and GFAP-positive cells) following SCI with the superiority of Cur-ASCS. Cur-ASCS was successful to regulate the gene expression and protein levels of NLRP3, ASC, and Casp1in the spinal cord lesion. Our results indicate that using ASCS can lead to the entrance of cells into the scaffold and promote neurogenesis. However, Cur-ASCS had greater effects in terms of inflammation relief and enhanced neurogenesis.

Non-stem cell-derived exosomes: a novel therapeutics for neurotrauma

Neurotrauma, encompassing traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and spinal cord injuries (SCI) impacts a significant portion of the global population. While spontaneous recovery post-TBI or SCI is possible, recent advancements in cell-based therapies aim to bolster these natural reparative mechanisms. Emerging research indicates that the beneficial outcomes of such therapies might be largely mediated by exosomes secreted from the administered cells. While stem cells have garnered much attention, exosomes derived from non-stem cells, including neurons, Schwann cells, microglia, and vascular endothelial cells, have shown notable therapeutic potential. These exosomes contribute to angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and axon remodeling, and display anti-inflammatory properties, marking them as promising agents for neurorestorative treatments. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the current methodologies, challenges, and future directions regarding the therapeutic role of non-stem cell-derived exosomes in neurotrauma.

Understanding exosomes: Part 2-Emerging leaders in regenerative medicine

Exosomes are the smallest subset of extracellular signaling vesicles secreted by most cells with the ability to communicate with other tissues and cell types over long distances. Their use in regenerative medicine has gained tremendous momentum recently due to their ability to be utilized as therapeutic options for a wide array of diseases/conditions. Over 5000 publications are currently being published yearly on this topic, and this number is only expected to dramatically increase as novel therapeutic strategies continue to be developed. Today exosomes have been applied in numerous contexts including neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's disease, central nervous system, depression, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, post-traumatic stress disorders, traumatic brain injury, peripheral nerve injury), damaged organs (heart, kidney, liver, stroke, myocardial infarctions, myocardial infarctions, ovaries), degenerative processes (atherosclerosis, diabetes, hematology disorders, musculoskeletal degeneration, osteoradionecrosis, respiratory disease), infectious diseases (COVID-19, hepatitis), regenerative procedures (antiaging, bone regeneration, cartilage/joint regeneration, osteoarthritis, cutaneous wounds, dental regeneration, dermatology/skin regeneration, erectile dysfunction, hair regrowth, intervertebral disc repair, spinal cord injury, vascular regeneration), and cancer therapy (breast, colorectal, gastric cancer and osteosarcomas), immune function (allergy, autoimmune disorders, immune regulation, inflammatory diseases, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis). This scoping review is a first of its kind aimed at summarizing the extensive regenerative potential of exosomes over a broad range of diseases and disorders.

Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Post-Spinal-Cord-Injury Anxiety and Depression: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

The majority of research on the long-term effects of spinal cord injury (SCI) has primarily focused on neuropathic pain (NP), psychological issues, and sensorimotor impairments. Among SCI patients, mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression, have been extensively studied. It has been found that chronic stress and NP have negative consequences and reduce the quality of life for individuals living with SCI. Our review examined both human and experimental evidence to explore the connection between mood changes following SCI and inflammatory pathways, with a specific focus on NLRP3 inflammasome signaling. We observed increased proinflammatory factors in the blood, as well as in the brain and spinal cord tissues of SCI models. The NLRP3 inflammasome plays a crucial role in various diseases by controlling the release of proinflammatory molecules like interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and IL-18. Dysregulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in key brain regions associated with pain processing, such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, contributes to the development of mood disorders following SCI. In this review, we summarized recent research on the expression and regulation of components related to NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in mood disorders following SCI. Finally, we discussed potential therapeutic approaches that target the NLRP3 inflammasome and regulate proinflammatory cytokines as a way to treat mood disorders following SCI.

Inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome-A potential mechanistic therapeutic for treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome?

This review article explores the relationship between the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and the risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The NLRP3 inflammasome, a fundamental element of the innate immune system, plays a crucial role in the production of proinflammatory mediators and pyroptosis, a type inflammatory cell death. We conducted a thorough search on scientific databases to gather relevant information on this topic, utilizing relevant keywords. The reviewed studies indicated a correlation between PCOS and a higher incidence of granulosa cell (GC) death and the presence of ovarian tissue fibrosis. NLRP3 inflammasome stimulation and subsequent pyroptosis in GCs play a significant role in the pathophysiology of PCOS. Active NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in the production of inflammatory mediators like interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18, contributing to the development of PCOS, particularly in overweight patients. Therefore, inhibiting NLRP3 activation and pyroptosis could potentially offer novel therapeutic strategies for PCOS. Some limited studies have explored the use of agents with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as gene therapy approaches, to target the NLRP3 and pyroptosis signaling pathways. This study overview the understanding of the relationship between NLRP3 inflammasome activation, pyroptosis, and PCOS. It highlights the potential of targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome as an approach for treating PCOS. Nonetheless, further research and clinical trials are imperative to validate these results and explore the effectiveness of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition in the management of PCOS.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived exosomes in animal models of central nervous system diseases: Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome

The NLRP3 (NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3) inflammasome is a multimeric protein complex that is engaged in the innate immune system and plays a vital role in inflammatory reactions. Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and subsequent release of proinflammatory cytokines can be triggered by microbial infection or cellular injury. The NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many disorders affecting the central nervous system (CNS), ranging from stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and depression. Furthermore, emerging evidence has suggested that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their exosomes may modulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation in a way that might be promising for the therapeutic management of CNS diseases. In the present review, particular focus is placed on highlighting and discussing recent scientific evidence regarding the regulatory effects of MSC-based therapies on the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and their potential to counteract proinflammatory responses and pyroptotic cell death in the CNS, thereby achieving neuroprotective impacts and improvement in behavioral impairments.

Sulforaphane alleviates lung ischemia‑reperfusion injury through activating Nrf‑2/HO‑1 signaling

Oxidative stress and inflammation are both involved in the pathogenesis of lung ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Sulforaphane (SFN) is a natural product with cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The present study hypothesized that SFN may protect against lung I/R injury via the regulation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory-related pathways. A rat model of lung I/R injury was established, and rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: Sham group, I/R group, and SFN group. It was shown that SFN protected against a pathological inflammatory response via inhibition of neutrophil accumulation and in the reduction of the serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. SFN treatment also significantly inhibited lung reactive oxygen species production, decreased the levels of 8-OH-dG and malondialdehyde, and reversed the decrease in the antioxidant activities of the enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in the lungs of the I/R treated rats. In addition, SFN ameliorated I/R-induced lung apoptosis in rats by suppressing Bax and cleaved caspase-3 levels and increased Bcl-2 expression. Furthermore, SFN treatment activated an Nrf2-related antioxidant pathway, as indicated by the increased nuclear transfer of Nrf2 and the downstream HO-1 and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase-1. In conclusion, these findings suggested that SFN protected against I/R-induced lung lesions in rats via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and the accompanied anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects.

Aging-accelerated differential production and aggregation of STAT3 protein in neuronal cells and neural stem cells in the male mouse spinal cord

Aging-affected cellular compositions of the spinal cord are diverse and region specific. Age leads to the accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates and dysregulation of proteostasis. Dysregulated proteostasis and protein aggregates result from dysfunction of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and autophagy. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of spinal cord aging is essential and important for scientists to discover new therapies for rejuvenation. We found age-related increases in STAT3 and decreases in Tuj1 in aging mouse spinal cords, which was characterized by increased expression of P16. Coaggregation of lysine-48 and lysine-63 ubiquitin with STAT3 was revealed in aging mouse spinal cords. STAT3-ubiquitin aggregates formed via lysine-48 and lysine-63 linkages were increased significantly in the aging spinal cords but not in central canal ependymal cells or neural stem cells in the spinal cord. These results highlight the increase in STAT3 and its region-specific aggregation and ubiquitin-conjugation during spinal cord aging.

Formation and activity of NLRP3 inflammasome and histopathological changes in the lung of corpses with COVID-19

COVID-19 is a contagious disease that attacks many organs but the lungs are the main organs affected. The inflammasome activation results in the exacerbation of inflammatory response in infectious disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the formation and activity of the NLRP3 inflammasome complex and the histopathological changes caused by the coronavirus in the lung of deceased persons with COVID-19. In total, 10 corpses; 5 corpses with no history of any infectious diseases and COVID-19 and 5 corpses with the cause of death of COVID-19 were included in this study. Lung tissue samples were harvested during autopsy under safe conditions. Fresh tissues in each group were used to measure the genes expression and proteins level of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α and a routine hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed for histological assessment. Data are represented as the means ± SD. Statistical significance difference was accepted at a p-value less than 5%. The NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α genes expression and proteins level were elevated in the lung of the COVID-19 group in comparison with the control group. Histological findings presented the increasing number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, macrophages and also pulmonary fibrosis in the lungs of corpses with the cause of death of COVID-19. High expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components and its relation with the pathophysiology of the coronavirus-infected lung suggested that targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome could be helpful in achieving a more effective treatment in patients with COVID-19.

MircoRNA-29a in Astrocyte-derived Extracellular Vesicles Suppresses Brain Ischemia Reperfusion Injury via TP53INP1 and the NF-κB/NLRP3 Axis

Brain ischemia reperfusion injury (BIRI) is defined as a series of brain injury accompanied by inflammation and oxidative stress. Astrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are importantly participated in BIRI with involvement of microRNAs (miRs). Our study aimed to discuss the functions of miR-29a from astrocyte-derived EVs in BIRI treatment. Thus, astrocyte-derived EVs were extracted. Oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) cell models and BIR rat models were established. Then, cell and rat activities and pyroptosis-related protein levels in these two kinds of models were detected. Functional assays were performed to verify inflammation and oxidative stress. miR-29a expression in OGD cells and BIR rats was measured, and target relation between miR-29a and tumor protein 53-induced nuclear protein 1 (TP53INP1) was certified. Rat neural function was tested. Astrocyte-derived EVs improved miR-29a expression in N9 microglia and rat brains. Astrocyte-derived EVs inhibited OGD-induced injury and inflammation in vitro, reduced brain infarction, and improved BIR rat neural functions in vivo. miR-29a in EVs protected OGD-treated cells and targeted TP53INP1, whose overexpression suppressed the protective function of EVs on OGD-treated cells. miR-29a alleviated OGD and BIRI via downregulating TP53INP1 and the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. Briefly, our study demonstrated that miR-29a in astrocyte-derived EVs inhibits BIRI by downregulating TP53INP1 and the NF-κB/NLRP3 axis.

Multiple therapeutic effects of human neural stem cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells in a rat model of post-traumatic syringomyelia

Background

Post-traumatic syringomyelia (PTS) affects patients with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) and is characterized by progressive deterioration of neurological symptoms. To improve surgical treatment, we studied the therapeutic effects of neuroepithelial-like stem cells (NESCs) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in a rat model of PTS. To facilitate clinical translation, we studied NESCs derived from Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant iPSCs.

Methods

Human GMP-compliant iPSCs were used to derive NESCs. Cryo-preserved NESCs were used off-the-shelf for intraspinal implantation to PTS rats 1 or 10 weeks post-injury, and rats were sacrificed 10 weeks later. In vivo cyst volumes were measured with micro-MRI. Phenotypes of differentiated NESCs and host responses were analyzed by immunohistochemistry.

Findings

Off-the-shelf NESCs transplanted to PTS rats 10 weeks post-injury reduced cyst volume. The grafted NESCs differentiated mainly into glial cells. Importantly, NESCs also stimulated tissue repair. They reduced the density of glial scars and neurite-inhibiting chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4), stimulated host oligodendrocyte precursor cells to migrate and proliferate, reduced active microglia/macrophages, and promoted axonal regrowth after subacute as well as chronic transplantation.

Interpretation

Significant neural repair promoted by NESCs demonstrated that human NESCs could be used as a complement to standard surgery in PTS. We envisage that future PTS patients transplanted with NESCs will benefit both from eliminating the symptoms of PTS, as well as a long-term improvement of the neurological symptoms of SCI.

Funding

This work was supported by Vinnova (2016-04134), Karolinska Institutet StratRegen, and the Chinese Scholarship Council.

All-Trans Retinoic Acid-Preconditioned Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improve Motor Function and Alleviate Tissue Damage After Spinal Cord Injury by Inhibition of HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 Pathway Through Autophagy Activation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant public health issue that imposes numerous burdens on patients and society. Uncontrolled excessive inflammation in the second pathological phase of SCI can aggravate the injury. In this paper, we hypothesized that suppressing inflammatory pathways via autophagy could aid functional recovery, and prevent spinal cord tissue degeneration following SCI. To this end, we examined the effects of intrathecal injection of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)-preconditioned bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) (ATRA-MSCs) on autophagy activity and the HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammatory pathway in an SCI rat model. This study demonstrated that SCI increased the expression of Beclin-1 (an autophagy-related gene) and NLRP3 inflammasome components such as NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6, and TNF-α. Additionally, following SCI, the protein levels of key autophagy factors (Beclin-1 and LC3-II) and HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway factors (HMGB1, p-NF-κB, NLRP3, IL-1β, and TNF-α) increased. Our findings indicated that ATRA-MSCs enhanced Beclin-1 and LC3-II levels, regulated the HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway, and inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines. These factors improved hind limb motor activity and aided in the survival of neurons. Furthermore, ATRA-MSCs demonstrated greater beneficial effects than MSCs in treating spinal cord injury. Overall, ATRA-MSC treatment revealed beneficial effects on the damaged spinal cord by suppressing excessive inflammation and activating autophagy. Further research and investigation of the pathways involved in SCI and the use of amplified stem cells may be beneficial for future clinical use.

Extracellular Vesicles in the Pathogenesis, Treatment, and Diagnosis of Spinal Cord Injury: A Mini-Review

BACKGROUND

Benefiting from in-depth research into stem cells, extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are byproducts of cells and membrane-wrapped microvesicles (30-120 nm) containing lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, may cast light on the research and development of therapeutics capable of improving the neurological recovery of spinal cord injury (SCI) animals. However, the mechanistic modes of action for EVs in alleviating the lesion size of SCI remain to be solved, thus presenting a tremendous gap existing in translation from the laboratory to the clinic.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this minireview was to cover a wide range of basic views on EVs involved in SCI treatment, including the effects of EVs on the pathogenesis, treatment, and diagnosis of spinal cord injury.

METHODS

We searched databases (i.e., PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, and EMBASE) and acquired all accessible articles published in the English language within five years. Studies reporting laboratory applications of EVs in the treatment of SCI were included and screened to include studies presenting relevant molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

This review first summarized the basic role of EVs in cell communication, cell death, inflammatory cascades, scar formation, neuronal regrowth, and angiogenesis after SCI, thereby providing insights into neuroprotection and consolidated theories for future clinical application of EVs.

CONCLUSION

EVs participate in an extremely wide range of cell activities, play a critical role in cell communication centring neurons, and are considered potential therapies and biomarkers for SCI. miRNAs are the most abundant nucleic acids shipped by EVs and effluent cytokines, and they may represent important messengers of EVs and important factors in SCI treatment.

Advanced approaches to regenerate spinal cord injury: The development of cell and tissue engineering therapy and combinational treatments

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a central nervous system (CNS) devastate event that is commonly caused by traumatic or non-traumatic events. The reinnervation of spinal cord axons is hampered through a myriad of devices counting on the damaged myelin, inflammation, glial scar, and defective inhibitory molecules. Unfortunately, an effective treatment to completely repair SCI and improve functional recovery has not been found. In this regard, strategies such as using cells, biomaterials, biomolecules, and drugs have been reported to be effective for SCI recovery. Furthermore, recent advances in combinatorial treatments, which address various aspects of SCI pathophysiology, provide optimistic outcomes for spinal cord regeneration. According to the global importance of SCI, the goal of this article review is to provide an overview of the pathophysiology of SCI, with an emphasis on the latest modes of intervention and current advanced approaches for the treatment of SCI, in conjunction with an assessment of combinatorial approaches in preclinical and clinical trials. So, this article can give scientists and clinicians' clues to help them better understand how to construct preclinical and clinical studies that could lead to a breakthrough in spinal cord regeneration.

Extracellular vesicles as novel approaches for the treatment of osteoarthritis: a narrative review on potential mechanisms

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive degeneration of articular cartilage with involvement of synovial membrane, and subchondral bone. Current treatment approaches have focused on controlling the OA symptoms, pain, and inflammation. Recently, cell-based therapies, including the application of stem cells such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have been introduced for restoration of the articular cartilage. Despite promising outcomes, there are some limitations in the application of MSCs for OA treatment. It has been demonstrated that the regenerative potential of stem cells is related to the production of paracrine factors. Extracellular vehicles (EVs), the main component of cell secretome, are membrane-bounded structures that deliver biologically active agents. The delivery of molecules (e.g., nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids) leads to cell-to-cell communication and the alteration of cell functions. In this review, general characteristics of EVs, as well as their potential mechanisms in the prevention and treatment of OA were considered. Based on in vitro and in vivo studies, EVs have shown to contribute to cartilage regeneration via suppression of degenerative factors and regulation of chondrocyte function in the synthesis of extracellular matrix components. Also, they inhibit the progression of OA or protect the cartilage from degradation via their impact on inflammatory cytokines. The different signaling pathways of EVs against the pathologic features of OA were summarized in this review. According to the results obtained from several investigations, more investigations should be design to prove the safety and effectiveness of EVs in the treatment and prevention of OA progression.

Photobiomodulation therapy improved functional recovery and overexpression of interleukins-10 after contusion spinal cord injury in rats

Following severe Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), regeneration is inadequate, and functional recovery is incomplete. The occurrence of oxidative stress and the spread of inflammation play a crucial role in the failure to regenerate the injury site. In this way, we explored the neuroprotective effects of PhotoBioModulation (PBM), as the main factor in controlling these two destructive factors, on SCI. fifty-four female adult Wistar rats divided into three groups: sham group (just eliminate vertebra lamina, n = 18), SCI group (n = 18), and SCI-PBM group which exposed to PBM (150 MW, 50 min/day, 14 days, n = 18). After SCI induction at the endpoint of the study (the end of 8 week), we took tissue samples from the spinal cord for evaluating the biochemical profiles that include Catalase (CAT), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH-PX) levels, immunohistochemistry for Caspase-3, gene expressions of Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), and Interleukin (IL-10). Also, stereological assessments evaluated the spinal cord, central cavity volumes, and numerical density of the glial and neural cells in the traumatic area. The open-field test, rotarod test, Narrow Beam Test (NBT), Electromyography recording (EMG) test and the Basso-Beattie-Bresnehan (BBB) evaluated the neurological functions. Our results showed that the stereological parameters, biochemical profiles (except MDA), and neurological functions were markedly greater in the SCI-PBM group in comparison with SCI group. The transcript for the IL-10 gene was seriously upregulated in the SCI-PBM group compared to the SCI group. This is while gene expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, also density of apoptosis cells in Caspase-3 evaluation decreased significantly more in the SCI-PBM group compared to the SCI group. Overall, using PBM treatment immediately after SCI has neuroprotective effects by controlling oxidative stress and inflammation and preventing the spread of damage.

Spinal Cord Repair: From Cells and Tissue Engineering to Extracellular Vesicles

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition, often leading to severe motor, sensory, or autonomic nervous dysfunction. As the holy grail of regenerative medicine, promoting spinal cord tissue regeneration and functional recovery are the fundamental goals. Yet, effective regeneration of injured spinal cord tissues and promotion of functional recovery remain unmet clinical challenges, largely due to the complex pathophysiology of the condition. The transplantation of various cells, either alone or in combination with three-dimensional matrices, has been intensively investigated in preclinical SCI models and clinical trials, holding translational promise. More recently, a new paradigm shift has emerged from cell therapy towards extracellular vesicles as an exciting "cell-free" therapeutic modality. The current review recapitulates recent advances, challenges, and future perspectives of cell-based spinal cord tissue engineering and regeneration strategies.

Antibiotics with therapeutic effects on spinal cord injury: a review

Accumulating evidence indicates that a considerable number of antibiotics exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in different central and peripheral nervous system diseases including spinal cord injury (SCI). Both clinical and preclinical studies on SCI have found therapeutic effects of antibiotics from different families on SCI. These include macrolides, minocycline, β-lactams, and dapsone, all of which have been found to improve SCI sequels and complications. These antibiotics may target similar signaling pathways such as reducing inflammatory microglial activity, promoting autophagy, inhibiting neuronal apoptosis, and modulating the SCI-related mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review paper, we will discuss the mechanisms underlying therapeutic effects of these antibiotics on SCI, which not only could supply vital information for investigators but also guide clinicians to consider administering these antibiotics as part of a multimodal therapeutic approach for management of SCI and its complications.

Severe Zinc Deficiency Causes the Loss and Apoptosis of Olfactory Ensheathing Cells (OECs) and Olfactory Deficit

Dietary zinc deficiency may lead to olfactory deficits, whose mechanism remains largely elusive. Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), a type of glial cells that support the function and neurogenesis in the olfactory bulb (OB), may play a pivotal role in the maintenance of the olfactory system. In the present study, we established a rat model of dietary zinc deficiency and found that severe zinc deficiency, but not marginal zinc deficiency, caused significantly reduced food intake, growth retardation, and apparent olfactory deficit in growing rats. We showed that severe zinc deficiency resulted in the loss of OECs in the olfactory nerve layer (ONL) of the olfactory bulb. In addition, we revealed that the number of TUNEL-positive cells increased markedly in the region, suggesting an involvement of apoptotic cell death in zinc deficiency-induced loss of OECs. Moreover, we found that treatment with zinc chelator N,N,N'N',-tetrakis (2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN) triggered the apoptosis of in vitro-cultured primary OECs. The apoptosis of OECs was correlated with significantly elevated expression of p53. Importantly, TUNEL and CCK-8 assays both demonstrated that treatment with p53 antagonist pifithrin-α (PFT-α) markedly attenuated TPEN-induced OEC apoptosis. These findings implicated that p53-triggered apoptosis of OECs might play an integral role in zinc deficiency-induced olfactory malfunction.

Involvement of the hippocampus in chronic pain and depression

Increases in depressive behaviors have been reported in patients experiencing chronic pain. In these patients, the symptoms of pain and depression commonly coexist, impairing their lives and challenging effective treatment. The hippocampus may play a role in both chronic pain and depression. A reduction in the volume of the hippocampus is related to reduced neurogenesis and neuroplasticity in cases of chronic pain and depression. Moreover, an increase of proinflammatory factors and a reduction of neurotrophic factors have been reported to modulate the hippocampal neurogenesis and neuroplasticity in chronic pain and depression. This review discusses the mechanisms underlying the depressive-like behavior accompanying chronic pain, emphasizing the structural and functional changes in the hippocampus. We also discuss the hypothesis that pro-inflammatory factors and neurotrophic factors expressed in the hippocampus may serve as a therapeutic target for comorbid chronic pain and depression.