Harnessing Endogenous Neural Stem Cells: A New Frontier in Spinal Cord Injury Repair

Spinal cord injury (SCI), a serious neurological condition caused by trauma, inflammation, infection, or vascular diseases, potentially causing partial or complete loss of sensory and motor function, and in severe cases, may lead to paralysis. The global incidence of SCI is rising annually, with a significant increase observed in China. The ependymal region of the spinal cord, containing endogenous neural stem cells (ENSCs), is recognized for its potential in neural regeneration and functional recovery after SCI. Cells lining the central canal of the spinal cord can develop into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes, which are essential for repairing SCI. The present manuscript delves into the cellular origins, distribution, heterogeneity, and the potential therapeutic applications of ENSCs, offering insights into novel clinical interventions for SCI based on endogenous regenerative capabilities.