Spinal interneurons and cell transplantation

The Emerging Role of Biological Sex in Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury

“…Scientists have worked for nearly half a century to explore the potential of transplanted neural stem cells and neural progenitor cells (NPCs) to replace lost neural tissue following spinal cord injury (SCI). 1 - 3 Decades of intensive research have illuminated the ability of transplanted NPCs to differentiate into neurons and macroglia, extend graft-derived axons for long distances throughout the host nervous system, support ingrowth of regenerating host axons, and foster the formation of electrophysiological relays. The overarching goal of this field of research is to translate NPC transplantation to the clinical setting where, with luck, the transplanted cells might aid functional recovery for individuals living with SCI.…”

“…The goal of NPC transplantation is to promote novel host/graft synaptic connections that can mediate the recovery of neurological function. 1 , 2 If grafts are attacked by the host immune system, the establishment and/or maintenance of synapses between graft and host would likely be eroded.…”