Spinal cord organoid injury and therapy shown in human model

Researchers developed two human spinal cord organoid injury models, and a preclinical supramolecular peptide amphiphile treatment reduced scar-like tissue and supported axonal regeneration in those models.

Researchers developed two human spinal cord organoid models to simulate spinal cord injury in the laboratory. The models used a scalpel laceration and a compressive contusion to reproduce common injury types. Both injuries led to immediate neuronal loss and the formation of glial scar-like tissue. Injured organoids were treated with a previously studied bioactive supramolecular peptide amphiphile assembly. Key findings: - Two human spinal cord organoid injury models were created: a scalpel laceration and a compressive contusion. - Both injury types produced immediate neuronal death and glial scar-like tissue formation. - Treatment with the bioactive supramolecular peptide amphiphile suppressed scar-like tissue and promoted axonal regeneration in the organoids. - When microglia were included in the organoids, the nanomaterial reduced pro-inflammatory factors commonly associated with injury. Summary: The organoid models reproduce key features of spinal cord injury and showed responses to a preclinical supramolecular therapy, including reduced scarring, axonal regrowth, and lowered inflammatory signals. These human models could accelerate discovery of therapies for spinal cord and other central nervous system damage. Undetermined at this time.