Articles tagged with Spinal Cord
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that patients with chronic sciatica have elevated levels of a neuroinflammation marker in the spinal cord and nerve roots. The study suggests that blocking neuroinflammation may be a viable treatment option for these patients, particularly those who benefit from steroid injections.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center mapped critical brain-to-spinal cord nerve connections that drive voluntary movement in forelimbs. The study identified specific neurons that control different skilled movements and provided insights into the organization and function of corticospinal circuits.
Researchers found that a drug called nalfurafine hydrochloride can deliver itch relief by targeting kappa opioid receptors on neurons in the spinal cord, potentially treating many types of chronic itching.
Researchers at EPFL have discovered that the brain reroutes task-specific motor commands through alternative pathways originating in the brainstem and projecting to the spinal cord. This rewiring leads to new connections between the brain and spinal cord, enabling rats to regain control over their paralyzed limbs.
A study led by Patrick Freund found that patients with smaller initial nerve loss have better long-term recovery. The researchers tracked microstructural changes in the spinal cord and brain after two years, predicting recovery trajectories using non-invasive neuroimaging.
A Salk Institute study has identified distinct molecular profiles in V2a neurons that control arm and leg movements, shedding light on neural regulation of motor control. The findings could lead to personalized stem-cell-based treatments for repairing spinal cord injuries.
A case study published in JAMA Neurology reports improved side effects for a man with a spinal cord injury after receiving an experimental electrical implant. The treatment, known as epidural stimulation, has shown positive changes in blood pressure control, bowel function, and energy levels.
Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that injecting a drug called chondroitinase ABC into the spinal cord can enhance recovery in stroke victims. The therapy, combined with rehabilitative training, showed significant improvements in sensorimotor deficits and allowed subjects to perform tasks at pre-stroke levels.
Researchers at UCLA have uncovered a gene network that promotes the formation of spinal motor neurons in chicken and mouse embryos. The study sheds light on how embryonic development is orchestrated for motor neuron formation, with implications for stem cell-based therapies to repair or study neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers at University of Louisville find activity-based training improves bladder and bowel function, increases sexual desire in individuals with severe spinal cord injury. The training also strengthens neural circuits that control urogenital and bowel functions.
Researchers at UC San Diego have identified a new genetic pathway that plays an active role in neuron damage regeneration. The discovery of the PIWI-interacting small RNA (piRNA) pathway could offer therapeutic targets for helping neurons regrow after traumatic injuries and stroke.
A study by MBL researchers found that genes aiding lamprey spinal cord healing are also active in mammalian peripheral nervous systems. The findings support the idea of harnessing these genes for improved spinal cord injury treatments.
The study found that genes responsible for repairing spinal cords in fish, such as the lamprey, are also present and active in mammals, including humans. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches for spinal cord injuries in humans.
A recent study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that most patients with suspected spinal cord inflammation of unknown cause were later diagnosed with a specific condition. The study revealed that nearly 70% of patients received an alternative diagnosis, including multiple sclerosis and vascular strokes of the spinal cord.
A UNIST professor has been awarded for his work on a patch that can regenerate damaged spinal cords, with the aim of preventing further progression of damages and optimizing neurogeneration. The patch is currently in Phase III clinical trials and contains FDA-approved materials, showing promising therapeutic effectiveness.
A team of researchers from the University of Bristol has successfully transplanted genetically modified olfactory ensheathing cells that secrete a treatment enzyme, promoting nerve regrowth in rodent models of spinal cord injury. This approach may potentially lead to improved recovery and functional restoration for individuals with sev...
Researchers at Salk Institute reveal specific neurons called RORbeta interneurons inhibit transmission of disruptive sensory info, promoting a fluid gait during walking. This sophisticated spinal cord processing highlights the nervous system's ability to selectively shut off irrelevant information.
A study published in Spine Journal found that durotomy cases involving late detection and severe injury are more likely to result in a verdict in favor of the patient. The researchers identified 48 malpractice cases where incidental durotomy during spinal surgery led to litigation, with most resulting in a ruling in favor of the surgeon.
Researchers have successfully treated paraplegic rats using human stem cells, which have shown significantly improved mobility and sensory perception after spinal cord injury. The engineered tissue containing stem cells also demonstrated some degree of spinal cord healing.
Researchers at the University of Guelph have discovered the type of stem cell responsible for a gecko's ability to regrow its tail. The study found that the gecko's spinal cord contains radial glia stem cells, which proliferate and form new tissue after injury.
Researchers developed exercise recommendations for adults with spinal cord injuries, including moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic exercise and strengthening exercises. The guidelines aim to improve fitness and reduce mortality rates among people with SCI, addressing leading causes of death such as cardiovascular disease and obesity.
Researchers discovered two sets of neural signals control diaphragm movement, one in the brain and one in the spinal cord. They used a drug to activate this alternative pathway, restoring breath-like movements in rodents.
Scientists at Columbia's Zuckerman Institute are creating an atlas of gene activity for all cells in the human spinal cord. The single-cell atlas will help researchers understand and treat spinal-cord disease and injury, including ALS.
Researchers identified a new mechanism for how spinal cord injury weakens the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to pneumonia. Disrupting nerve fibers to the adrenal glands may be a promising treatment strategy to prevent or reduce infections.
Researchers have developed a new surgical technique to reconnect sensory neurons to the spinal cord, offering hope for treating traumatic spinal injuries. The technique involves implanting neural offshoots into the dorsal horn of the spinal cord to form a functional neural circuit.
Researchers have pinpointed key molecules that prompt damaged nerve fibres in zebrafish to regenerate themselves. Understanding these signals could hold clues for therapies to help heal the spinal cord after injury.
Researchers found that rats partially recovered hind limb movement using cycling, semi-load bearing treadmill training, and serotonin treatment without healing the spinal cord break. The body re-routes nerve cell outputs to control muscles and stiffens back muscles to support weight and independent steps.
The SRK-015 antibody program demonstrated beneficial effects in a preclinical model of spinal cord injury, reducing muscle atrophy, fat infiltration, and improving muscle function. The findings support the potential of SRK-015 to address unmet needs in treating degenerative neuromuscular conditions.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute and colleagues discover that nerve cells use two signals to measure position accurately, turning into the right type of cell. This finding could inform regenerative medicine and tissue engineering approaches.
Children with TB meningitis have a unique biological profile that helps assess disease severity and predict outcomes. This discovery enables doctors to make informed treatment decisions and provide novel treatments.
Six abstracts selected for their innovative therapy approaches and basic research providing knowledge to improve treatment or clarify mode of action. These include a new functional treatment for chronic low back pain and stimulation effects on postural instability in Parkinson's disease.
A study by Queen Mary University of London found that axonal loss in multiple sclerosis (MS) is not the sole cause of chronic disability. The researchers discovered a substantial loss of synaptic connections in the MS spinal cord, which may drive disability. This new understanding could help identify targets for new treatments.
A new discovery at the University of Alberta found that chronic ischemia after spinal cord injury disrupts blood flow, leading to poor oxygenation and motor dysfunction. Elevating oxygen levels improved blood flow and restored function in rat models.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes create stem cell-derived V2a interneurons that transmit signals in the spinal cord, potentially repairing spinal cord injuries. These cells integrate with existing cells and restore movement in mice, offering new hope for spinal cord injury treatment.
Researchers used 3D printing to create a model of a patient's lower spine, allowing for successful insertion of a catheter for spinal cord stimulation. The technique may provide additional information to improve access in cases where standard approaches prove difficult.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a new brain pathway that controls hand movements, contradicting the long-held belief that motor functions originate from the frontal lobe. This finding has implications for understanding hand movement and may lead to better treatments for patients with motor function disorders.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic successfully stimulated a man's paralyzed legs using electrical current, enabling him to move and stand. The study suggests that people with discomplete spinal cord injuries may be candidates for epidural stimulation therapy.
Scientists have created a new type of stretchable neural implant that can be used to study spinal cord neurons and potentially restore function. The fibers, developed by MIT researchers, can flex and stretch while delivering both optical and electrical impulses.
A controlled study by UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health research shows no added benefit from opening narrowed veins in treating multiple sclerosis. The findings debunk the claim that patients could achieve dramatic improvements from liberation therapy, an invasive procedure with significant financial cost and risk of complications.
Researchers found that itch and mild pain signals can be transmitted through the same spinal cord neurons, with GRP neurons acting as a 'braking system' to mitigate intense pain. In mice without these neurons, pain responses were increased and scratching behaviors were altered.
A study published in eLife found that differences in gene activity between the left and right hemispheres are responsible for handedness. The researchers also discovered that environmental influences during pregnancy can affect the development of precursors to handedness.
Researchers at San Diego State University have developed glassy carbon electrodes that transmit more robust signals to restore motion in people with damaged spinal cords. This innovation improves durability and signal quality, enabling better motor function restoration.
Patients with spinal cord injuries are at risk for various systemic complications, including pneumonia, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain. Eighty percent of patients suffer from chronic pain, which affects their daily activities and emotional well-being.
A study found that genetic differences in the spinal cord of embryos contribute to handedness, with the left side maturing faster than the right. This early difference may trigger later brain asymmetries, including language dominance in most adults.
In two studies, researchers compared the cryopreserved human umbilical cord patch to acellular dermal matrix and conventional suturing methods for in-utero spina bifida repair. The results showed improved spinal cord function with decreased meningeal scar formation and better preservation of spinal cord tracts.
Researchers evaluated the effects of laser tissue welding on simulated spina bifida repair in rabbits, finding that it did not cause damage to spinal cord or skin tissue. The study suggests a potential breakthrough in fetal surgical repair procedures, offering a possible solution for reducing complications and improving outcomes.
The UCLA team implanted a spinal stimulator in a California man who broke his neck in a dirt-biking accident, showing early promise in returning hand strength and movement. The device bypasses the injury by training the spinal cord to find alternate pathways, allowing patients to regain mobility in their hands.
Researchers identified a potential target for restoring ejaculation in men with spinal cord injuries or ejaculatory disorders by targeting the L3-L5 spinal segments. The study suggests that this approach could be a promising therapy for patients unable to ejaculate due to spinal cord injury or other ejaculatory disorders.
Researchers use zebrafish to investigate spinal cord repair after injury, exploring mechanisms to trigger in other animals and human cells. They hope to identify new therapies for neurodegenerative conditions like motor neuron disease and multiple sclerosis.
Research reveals long projecting neurons coordinate fore- and hindlimb movements, maintaining stability and rhythm. Elimination of these neurons impairs running speed and coordination.
Researchers from Mayo Clinic identified a new biomarker for brain and spinal cord inflammation, allowing for faster diagnosis and treatment of patients with autoimmune meningoencephalomyelitis. The biomarker, an antibody targeting glial fibrillary acidic protein, helps diagnose the disease earlier and promotes more effective therapy.
Researchers at Kazan University and INSERM discovered that spontaneous limb movements of newborn rats synchronize spinal neurons, hinting at similar movement patterns aiding human neuron development. The four-year study found activation of motor and sensor zones through sensory feedback during movements.
A primate regained control of its paralyzed leg using a neuroprosthetic system that decodes brain activity associated with walking movements and relays this information to the spinal cord. The system was tested in collaboration with an international network of collaborators, including Medtronic and the University of Bordeaux.
Researchers at Duke University have identified a crucial protein, CTGF, essential for spinal cord regeneration in zebrafish. By introducing the human version of CTGF, they were able to boost regeneration and improve swimming abilities in fish.
Researchers found that spinal cord injuries cause profound changes in gut microbiota, leading to dysbiosis. However, feeding mice probiotics after a spinal cord injury improves functional recovery and elicits a protective immune response.
Researchers successfully boosted regeneration of mature nerve cells in the spinal cords of adult mammals, increasing the number of newly matured neurons by tenfold. The approach involves silencing the p53-p21 protein pathway and adding growth factors to boost neuron production.
Scientists discovered a molecular brake that prevents nerve fibers from regenerating, and found a drug that can trigger neuronal growth. Pregabalin treatment caused new connections to form between damaged neurons in mice with spinal cord injuries.
Researchers developed a brain-machine interface to help paraplegic patients regain motor function and sensation in their paralyzed limbs. After a year of training, patients showed significant improvements in bladder and bowel control, cardiovascular function, and even reduced hypertension.
A research team led by Moisés Mallo discovered the Oct4 gene as a key regulator of vertebrate trunk length diversity. The study found that snakes have an exceptionally long trunk due to changes in their genome during reptile evolution, which keeps the Oct4 gene active for longer periods.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have developed a novel rehabilitation method that uses paired associative stimulation to restore movement in patients with spinal cord injuries. After six months of treatment, two patients showed significant improvements, including bending and grasping abilities.