In the realm of central nervous system (CNS) repair, a critical need arises for innovative treatments that not only address the physical aspects of injury but also tackle the associated phychopathology. Understanding the cellular processes that occur after spinal cord injury (SCI) that are detrimental to axonal regeneration helps to design treatments to promote neural regeneration.

The Need

Traumatic SCIs demand interventions that foster structural plasticity, regeneration, and psychological well-being. This unmet need calls for a groundbreaking solution that simultaneously promotes CNS recovery and addresses SCI-related psychopathology.

The Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University have developed a solution by which pericytes are reprogrammed in vivo to promote axon outgrowth. The OSU researchers have shown that reprogrammed pericytes show ECM structural rearrangement. Co-administering gabapentinoids fosters structural plasticity, regeneration, and mitigates SCI psychopathology.

Benefits/Advantages

• Dual-Action Efficacy: The technology uniquely addresses both physical and psychological aspects of SCI, offering a comprehensive approach to CNS repair.
• Structural Plasticity: Gabapentinoids ability to promote neural plasticity and regeneration enhances the potential for functional recovery post-SCI.
• Therapeutic Synergy: The combination of structural repair and psychopathology management within a single intervention maximizes the potential for improved patient outcomes.
• Repurposing Potential: Leveraging gabapentinoids showcases the ingenuity of repurposing established medications, reducing research and development timelines while offering a novel therapeutic avenue.

Provisional patent application pending