Turning scar-forming support cells into neurons to repair spinal cord injuries
Converting the glial scar to neurons repairs the injured neural circuits for functional recovery following spinal cord injury
This project uses a cell-reprogramming approach to make support cells into new nerve cells to help people with spinal cord injuries regain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11393167 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers are using a factor called SOX2 to reprogram certain support cells (NG2 glia) in the injured spinal cord into new neurons. They aim to reduce the inhibitory astrocyte scar and encourage axons and surviving neurons to reconnect and transmit signals. The work involves laboratory and preclinical experiments using injured adult spinal cords, advanced 3D imaging, and tests of movement and nerve signaling. The team will measure whether the new neurons integrate into circuits and lead to functional improvements.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who have experienced a spinal cord injury with loss of motor or sensory function could be considered relevant candidates for future clinical steps.
Not a fit: People without spinal cord injury or whose injuries are incompatible with local reprogramming (for example, damage too extensive or medically unstable) would likely not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could restore lost nerve connections and improve movement and sensation after spinal cord injury.
How similar studies have performed: Related SOX2-based reprogramming work has produced new neurons and partial functional recovery in animal models, but it has not yet been proven effective in people.
Where this research is happening
Louisville, United States
- University of Louisville — Louisville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Wei — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Wu, Wei
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.