Neuronal survival and axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury: the role of neurotransmitters

Abstract

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is caused by a mechanical damage to the spinal cord. SCI is currently incurable, and treatment is limited to minimising secondary complications and maximising residual function by rehabilitation. We studied molecular pathways involved in neuroprotection and axon regeneration following a complete SCI in lampreys and, specifically, the role of neurotransmitters in these processes. This work suggests that a given signalling pathway can influence both neuroprotection and axon regeneration after axotomy. This thesis corroborates that lampreys constitute a reliable model for the study of the molecular mechanisms that underlie spontaneous recovery after SCI. Moreover, these results establish a solid basis for the study of new therapies for the regeneration of the mammalian spinal cord after injury. Translation of all this knowledge to pre-clinical studies is of obvious and crucial importance.