Exploring the Landscape of Biomarkers in Spinal Cord Injury

Despite considerable progress in spinal cord injury (SCI) research, there remains a pressing need for interventions that effectively restore neurological function after injury beyond that which occurs spontaneously. A major steppingstone towards the development of effective therapies for SCI is the ability to accurately predict recovery and identify individuals who are most likely to respond to intervention. Currently, the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) remains the primary tool for assessing neurological impairment after injury. However, based on the inherent limitations of the ISNCSCI exam, accurate and sensitive biomarkers are required. Understanding the role of biomarkers in SCI is crucial for improving diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies. In 2024, the Spinal Cord Outcome Partnership Endeavour (SCOPE) sponsored a precourse at the American Spinal Injuries Association (ASIA) meeting. The international panel discussed the scope, utility, and application of biomarkers in SCI clinical trials and clinical practice. This article summarizes key insights from this discussion, highlighting the value of various types of biomarkers, ranging from molecular and cellular markers to those reflecting neural circuits, systems, and movement. We also summarize the context of using different types of biomarkers and their application in research versus clinical practice. While there are currently no FDAqualified SCI biomarkers, the development of reliable biomarkers holds the potential to accelerate the pace of discovery and enable more precise approaches to treatment.