Title:Updates on Therapeutics in Clinical Trials for Spinal Cord Injuries: Key Translational Applications of Human Embryonic Stem Cells-Derived Neural Progenitors
Volume: 15
Issue: 10
Author(s): Habiba Aurang Zeb, Ishaq Nasib Khan, Iqbal Munir, Wafaa Saadeldin Ramadan, Mian Afaq Ahmad, Deema Hussein, Mohammad Amjad Kamal and Saleh Al Karim
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Clinical trials, neural progenitors, neurogenesis, neuroprotective therapeutics, neuroregenerative agents,
physiopathology, spinal cord injury, stem cells.
Abstract: Injuries to the spinal cord often have devastating physiological impacts
due to the organ’s vital role in neuro-impulse communications between muscles and
the brain. Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs) have recently been estimated to affect up to
80,000 individuals per year worldwide, with most occurring following a traumatic
event. Unfortunately, effective treatments standardised globally for patients with
SCIs have not yet been established. For many years, inadequate understanding of the
complexities of the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems and Neurogenesis has
limited progression towards effective cures. However, in the last century, scientific
advancements have generated new paradigms for medical treatments of SCIs. Basic
as well as translational studies have progressed to such an extent that many kinds of
protective and regenerative therapeutics are available in clinical trials. In particular, uncovering the
mechanisms responsible for controlling the pluripotent state of Human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESCs)
was proved vital for recognizing the prospective role in regenerative medicine for SCIs. Elucidating
knowledge of neurogenesis alongside hESCs in relation to SCIs has been crucial for critical assessments
of the existing translational therapeutic strategies for SCIs.
