Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 2, 2026

A Tissue Displacement-based Contusive Spinal Cord Injury Model in Mice
07:59

A Tissue Displacement-based Contusive Spinal Cord Injury Model in Mice

Published on: June 18, 2017

11.7K

Olig2-expressing Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhance Functional Recovery after Contusive Spinal Cord Injury

Hwan-Woo Park1,2, Soonyi Oh1, Kyung Hee Lee3

  • 1Laboratory of Stem Cell & Neurobiology, Department of Oral Anatomy, Dental Research Institute & School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.

International Journal of Stem Cells
|November 9, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Transplanting genetically modified human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) expressing Olig2 improved functional recovery and reduced glial scarring in a rat spinal cord injury (SCI) model. These Olig2-hMSCs show promise for SCI treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Regenerative Medicine
  • Cell Therapy

Background:

  • Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes glial scarring and inflammation, inhibiting neural regeneration.
  • Stem cell transplantation shows potential for SCI recovery but faces clinical application challenges.
  • The inhibitory microenvironment post-SCI hinders functional recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the therapeutic potential of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) genetically modified to express Olig2 in a rat SCI model.
  • To assess the effects of Olig2-hMSC transplantation on functional recovery and the spinal cord microenvironment.

Main Methods:

  • Bone marrow-derived hMSCs were genetically modified to express Olig2.
  • hMSCs (Olig2-modified or control) were transplanted one week after inducing contusive SCI in rats.
  • Spinal cords were analyzed 7 weeks post-transplantation.

Main Results:

  • Olig2-hMSC transplantation significantly improved functional recovery compared to control hMSCs.
  • Transplantation of Olig2-hMSCs attenuated glial scar formation in spinal cord lesions.
  • Olig2-hMSCs differentiated into oligodendrocyte-like cells, and axonal regeneration (NF-M positive) increased.

Conclusions:

  • Olig2-expressing hMSCs represent a safe and effective cell source for SCI treatment.
  • Olig2 modification enhances the therapeutic efficacy of hMSCs for spinal cord repair.
Keywords:
Mesenchymal stem cellsOlig2Spinal cord injuryTransplantation

More Related Videos

Neural Stem Cell Transplantation in Experimental Contusive Model of Spinal Cord Injury10:56

Neural Stem Cell Transplantation in Experimental Contusive Model of Spinal Cord Injury

Published on: December 17, 2014

13.5K
A Novel Vertebral Stabilization Method for Producing Contusive Spinal Cord Injury09:24

A Novel Vertebral Stabilization Method for Producing Contusive Spinal Cord Injury

Published on: January 5, 2015

18.3K

Related Concept Videos

Mesenchymal Stem Cells01:19

Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are adult stem cells that can differentiate into most connective tissue cell types, except for hematopoietic cells, depending upon the source of MSCs. For example, bone-marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) can differentiate into osteocytes, hepatocytes, and pancreatic and neuronal cells. MSCs can be isolated from various sources such as bone marrow, placenta, adipose tissue, teeth, and Wharton’s jelly, a gelatinous substance in the umbilical cord. The ease of their...
5.6K
Spinal Cord01:26

Spinal Cord

The spinal cord, a critical component of the central nervous system, extends from the base of the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. It is essential for maintaining physical stability and facilitating communication between the brain and peripheral parts of the body.
1.9K
The Spinal Cord01:54

The Spinal Cord

The spinal cord is the body’s major nerve tract of the central nervous system, communicating afferent sensory information from the periphery to the brain and efferent motor information from the brain to the body. The human spinal cord extends from the hole at the base of the skull, or foramen magnum, to the level of the first or second lumbar vertebra.
31.9K
Spinal Cord: Information Processing01:10

Spinal Cord: Information Processing

The spinal cord is an integral hub for motor and sensory information that enables the brain to communicate with the peripheral nervous system (PNS). This communication consists of relaying sensory data and transmission of motor commands.
Sensory Information Processing
Sensory information processing begins at the sensory receptors located in the skin and other tissues, which detect somatic sensory stimuli such as touch, temperature, or pain. These receptors function as catalysts, initiating...
3.6K
Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy01:15

Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy

The spinal cord resides within the protective confines of the vertebral column. It is the main pathway for information traveling between the brain and the body. It plays a fundamental role in nearly all bodily functions, from simple reflexes to complex motor movements. The spinal cord begins at the medulla oblongata at the base of the brainstem and extends downward, terminating at the conus medullaris near the first and second lumbar vertebrae. The spinal cord's length in adults is...
5.8K
Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy01:16

Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy

The cross-sectional anatomy of the spinal cord offers a detailed view of its complex structure and function within the central nervous system. At the core of the spinal cord lies the gray matter, characterized by its butterfly or "H"-shaped appearance in cross-section. This central region is enveloped by white matter, with the overall structure divided into symmetrical halves by the dorsal median sulcus and the ventral median fissure.
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
4.8K