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Clinical Trials Targeting Secondary Damage after Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Zin Z Khaing1, Jessica Y Chen2, Gevick Safarians2
1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
Abstract:
Spinal cord injury (SCI) often causes loss of sensory and motor function resulting in a significant reduction in quality of life for patients. Currently, no therapies are available that can repair spinal cord tissue. After the primary SCI, an acute inflammatory response induces further tissue damage in a process known as secondary injury. Targeting secondary injury to prevent additional tissue damage during the acute and subacute phases of SCI represents a promising strategy to improve patient outcomes. Here, we review clinical trials of neuroprotective therapeutics expected to mitigate secondary injury, focusing primarily on those in the last decade. The strategies discussed are broadly categorized as acute-phase procedural/surgical interventions, systemically delivered pharmacological agents, and cell-based therapies. In addition, we summarize the potential for combinatorial therapies and considerations.
Insights
Current spinal cord injury (SCI) treatments cannot repair tissue. This review examines neuroprotective therapies targeting secondary injury to improve patient outcomes after SCI.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Regenerative Medicine
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to significant sensory and motor function loss.
- Existing treatments do not repair spinal cord tissue.
- Secondary injury, an inflammatory response, exacerbates primary SCI damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical trials of neuroprotective therapeutics for SCI.
- To focus on therapies mitigating secondary injury.
- To explore strategies from the last decade.
Main Methods:
- Categorization of neuroprotective strategies: acute-phase interventions, systemic pharmacological agents, and cell-based therapies.
- Review of clinical trials within the last decade.
- Summary of combinatorial therapy potential.
Main Results:
- Neuroprotective strategies aim to mitigate secondary injury progression.
- Clinical trials investigate diverse approaches including surgical, pharmacological, and cellular interventions.
- Combinatorial therapies show potential for enhanced outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Targeting secondary injury is a critical strategy for improving SCI patient outcomes.
- A range of neuroprotective therapies are under clinical investigation.
- Future research should consider combined therapeutic approaches for SCI treatment.
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