American biotechnologists from Northwestern University in Chicago have created a molecular framework for the treatment of spinal cord injuries. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine ACS Nano.
Injuries to the central nervous system, including the spinal cord, often cause long-term nervous system dysfunction because the ability of these neurons to regenerate is limited. The current study explored new approaches to improve this repair process.
In the research, scientists sought to create a new type of nanofiber that mimics the biological activity of the netrin-1 protein and can deliver sustainable signals to neurons over long periods of time.
Netrin-1 is known to promote the development of new nerve connections and may play an important role in guiding axons, the long extensions of neurons that carry electrical signals, allowing movement after spinal injury.
“We have developed nanoscale fibers made of naturally occurring building blocks consisting of tens of thousands of molecules that can transmit signals to neurons and other cells and are completely safe to use.
Water-soluble nanofibers instantly turn into gel. The framework structure is introduced into the damaged tissue area using an injection. After a few weeks, it triggers regenerative processes and is then broken down into nutrients for the cells,” senior study author Samuel Stupp explained the working principle of the development.
When the researchers exposed the nanofibers to cortical neurons in mice, they observed increased electrical activity and greater neurite outgrowth; these were key indicators of nerve regeneration.
According to the study, protein analysis confirmed that the nanofibers activated neuronal netrin-1 receptors and successfully mimicked the protein for longer periods of time.
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