Research Links

A gel containing growth factor proteins that stimulate nerve regeneration is showing potential in rat studies for successful spinal cord repair. Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis designed the material, which includes "strategically placed" sugars and peptides that bind with stem cells delivered to the injury site. Now the best technique to regenerate peripheral nerve cells involves transplanting a nerve from the injured person's body and sewing it between the two ends of the injured nerve. Though the transplant is dead, it provides a friendly pathway that can guide regeneration of the injured nerve. But the operation creates another injury at the donor site and there is a limit to the amount of tissue that can be used. The new technique first places sticky material full of growth factor proteins next to the injury site where it can remain for months. Researchers said they are hopeful the gel will allow 50 to 75 percent of the injected stem cells to survive by providing them a better environment after transplantation.