Novel Therapies for Spinal Cord Injury

Summary

This project explores advancements in treating Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), a debilitating condition that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis, sensory loss, and chronic health complications. SCI can arise from traumatic events (e.g., accidents) or non-traumatic causes (e.g., degenerative diseases). Diagnosis relies on imaging tools like CT scans, MRIs, and myelograms to assess damage and guide treatment plans. SCI occurs in two stages: primary injury, characterized by immediate physical damage, and secondary injury, which includes inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular apoptosis. These processes lead to axonal damage, glial scar formation, and neuronal death, further impairing recovery. Current treatments, such as surgery, medications, and physical therapy, offer limited long-term benefits.Recent research highlights stem cell therapies as a promising approach. Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can regenerate damaged tissues, promote axonal growth, and reduce inflammation. Neural stem progenitor cells (NSPCs) show potential in addressing neuronal apoptosis and remyelination. Additionally, bioactive scaffolding technologies provide structural support for regenerating neural tissue. Despite promising outcomes in preclinical and early clinical trials, challenges remain, including immune responses, limited cell survival, and ethical concerns.

Introduction to Stem Cells
(Figure representation created by the author:Emma Chang)

Video Presentation

Impact Statement

My research details and explores novel therapies, specifically stem cells, for spinal cord injury. Studies from other researchers, the strengths of certain types of stem cells, and a rough idea of which stem cells best treat specific cases of spinal cord injury was put into a flow chart. I learned a lot about the various facets of stem cell therapy and the different ways it is currently being implemented into the medical industry. This program allowed me to learn which credible sources to turn to in order to find new and developing research and how to conduct research, develop an hypothesis and write a detailed research paper.

Report White Paper

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By: Emma Chang. The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Elio Academy.

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