Gene Enhancement of Neural Stem Cells Increase Potential for Clinical Applications

Published 2023-08-21

Researchers from the City University of Hongkong just published a research paper in the journal Advanced Science about an advancement in spinal cord injury treatment by using genetically modified human neural stem cells (hNSCs). By downregulating the gene expression of SOX 9, a protein which interferes with neuronal regeneration, transplanted neural stem cells in a Spinal Cord Injury model were able to form neural circuits and reduced glial scar accumulation, facilitating long-distance axon outgrowth. In a rat spinal cord injury model, this therapeutic approach resulted in a significant increase in neuronal recovery.