Scientists at the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis have announced new findings that may preserve function and improve recovery following acute spinal cord injury through a novel neuroprotective strategy. The results were presented at the Society for Neuroscience 32nd Annual Meeting this week in Orlando, FL.
Conducted by Miami Project colleagues, Mary Bartlett Ph.D. and Damien Pearse, Ph.D., the study examined the protective ability of a single injection of MDP (muramyl diethyl peptide) into a moderate contusion injury in the rat spinal cord six hours after the injury. MDP modifies the inflammation after injury in a beneficial way; in part it stimulates the production of proteins that protect the spinal cord from secondary damage.
"This finding is significant because it means that we may soon have better therapies to treat the newly injured spinal cord. Those therapies will help save neurological connections, resulting in increased recovery," said Mary Bunge, Ph.D., Miami Project researcher.
The results of this novel strategy showed that following MDP treatment, there were more preserved nerve fibers, coordinated walking behavior and better motor control. These results mean that this therapy could help improve the quality of life for people who are treated immediately following an accident.
"This is exciting news in spinal cord injury research. Based on these initial results, significant white matter tissue can be saved. Preserved white matter within the spinal cord is important for maintaining connections responsible for voluntary movements," said Dr. Bunge.