March 28, 2024

New synthetic protein restored nerve fibers in paralyzed mice

New synthetic protein restored nerve fibers in paralyzed mice

Scientists have created a synthetic peptide that stimulates the regeneration of the axons of nerve cells in the spinal cord.

Spinal cord injuries are one of the mostdangerous because they can lead to damage to the nerve fibers (axons) responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the muscles of the lower extremities. Since the human body does not have mechanisms that trigger their regeneration, this often leads to paralysis. Researchers are currently exploring various ways to restore limb function, includingstimulation therapy, transplantation and bypassing the affected areas.

A team from the Ruhr University Bochum decidedtake a different route and try to restore damaged axons using a special protein. To do this, they created hyper-interleukin-6 (hIL-6) – a modified natural peptide that promotes the regeneration of nerve fibers.

The tests were carried out on laboratory mice withcrushed spinal cord and paralyzed hind legs. Immediately after injury, the animals were injected with a common viral carrier into the primary sensorimotor cortex.

Over time, neurons at the injection site beganproduce regenerating protein and transmit it through the side branches of axons to other neurons responsible for actions such as walking. After 2-3 weeks, the mice showed recovery of hindpaw function, even after just one injection.

In the future, scientists will study the possibilityachieving a similar effect when hIL-6 is administered several weeks after injury. Although even with successful trials, this treatment method will not be applied to people soon.

Recently, researchers have also discovered a genetic factor that allows adult skin to regenerate without scarring.

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