Print Page

Hope in New Treatment for Spinal Cord Injuries

Author: Rutgers University
Published: 2011/05/04 - Updated: 2016/06/13
Topic: Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis Introduction Main

Synopsis: Chemically synthesized siRNA molecule decreases production of the RhoA protein when administered to the spine and allows regeneration of nerve cells.

Introduction

Rutgers researchers have developed an innovative new treatment that could help minimize nerve damage in spinal cord injuries, promote tissue healing and minimize pain.

Main Item

After a spinal cord injury there is an increased production of a protein (RhoA) that blocks regeneration of nerve cells that carry signals along the spinal cord and prevents the injured tissue from healing.

Scientists at the W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience and Quark Pharmaceuticals Inc. have developed a chemically synthesized siRNA molecule that decreases the production of the RhoA protein when administered to the spine and allows regeneration of the nerve cells.

"It is exciting because this minimally-invasive treatment can selectively target the injured tissue and thereby promote healing and reduce pain," says Martin Grumet, associate director of the Keck Center and senior author of a recent study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma.

The neuropathic pain, also known as phantom pain that occurs as a result of a spinal cord injury is often associated with an increased production of RhoA.

When researchers injected the chemically synthesized molecular substance into the spinal cords of laboratory rats with spinal cord injury using a procedure similar to a spinal tap, there was an overall improvement in tissue healing and recovery.

More than 250,000 people in the United States are living with a spinal cord injury and currently there is no way to reverse the damage.

No drugs for early treatment of spinal cord injury have been approved in over a decade.

Based on this joint research, Quark Pharmaceuticals, Inc now has a drug development program for the treatment of spinal cord injury and neuropathic pain.

This new research is supported by grants from the New Jersey Commission for Spinal Cord Research and Quark.

Explore Similar Topics

1 - - New research demonstrates the autonomous learning and memory capabilities of spinal cord neurons, highlighting their independence from cerebral control.

2 - - Patients often not satisfied with treatment for myelopathy when they have severe residual paresthesia, even when function and quality of life are improved after surgery.

3 - - New research offers important insights into how the immune system responds to spinal cord injuries, and why that response becomes blunted with the passing years.

Information and Page References

Disabled World (DW) is a comprehensive online resource that provides information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility issues. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.

Cite This Page (APA): Rutgers University. (2011, May 4 - Last revised: 2016, June 13). Hope in New Treatment for Spinal Cord Injuries. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved January 22, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/spinal/rhoa.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/spinal/rhoa.php">Hope in New Treatment for Spinal Cord Injuries</a>: Chemically synthesized siRNA molecule decreases production of the RhoA protein when administered to the spine and allows regeneration of nerve cells.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.