Charting new paths in neural regeneration: some prospects and possibilities after spinal cord injury

Neural regeneration, once considered unlikely, is now a leading area of experimental research and its underpinning of future clinical approaches is a serious possibility. The background to current research into neural regeneration is reviewed and the major principles of neural grafting are explored. The tension between fundamental biological processes and therapeutic attempts to override these processes is assessed. Particular emphasis is placed on spinal cord transplantation studies. The roles of stem cells, foetal grafts, and gene therapy are investigated.