A fine balance
V3 neurons play a vital role in maintaining balance between both sides of the body, ensuring robust stepping rhythms. The discovery provides an important milestone in understanding neural circuitry that coordinates walking movements.
Spinal Cord
Articles tagged with Spinal Cord
The pepperoni pizza hypothesis
Researchers at Northwestern University believe spicy food, including pepperoni pizza, can worsen pelvic pain and urinary frequency in women with interstitial cystitis. A new treatment approach using anesthetic patches or suppositories may provide relief.
Researchers use nanoparticles to deliver treatment for brain, spinal cord injuries
Purdue University researchers have developed a method of using nanoparticles to deliver treatments to injured brain and spinal cord cells. The team coated silica nanoparticles with a polymer to target and repair injured guinea pig spinal cords, showing improved physiological functioning in treated cells.
New study proves that pain is not a symptom of arthritis, pain causes arthritis
Researchers found that pain signals from arthritic joints worsen and expand the disease by transferring inflammation to the spinal cord. New treatments aim to interrupt 'crosstalk' between joints and the spinal cord to treat osteoarthritis.
New details presented in outbreak in pork processing plant workers
Researchers identified a new immune polyradiculoneuropathy affecting workers at several pork processing plants, causing nerve damage and inflammation in legs. Thirteen out of 15 patients showed elevated protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid and activation of their immune systems.
Leaky blood vessels open up nerve cells to toxic assault in Lou Gehrig's disease
Research finds that leaky blood vessels in mice with ALS mutations expose neurons to toxic substances, contributing to disease progression. The study opens a new front in understanding ALS, a debilitating disease that affects motor neurons.
Promising new nanotechnology for spinal cord injury
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a nano-engineered gel that inhibits scar tissue formation and enables spinal cord fiber regeneration. This breakthrough allows mice with spinal cord injuries to walk again after six weeks, paving the way for potential human trials.
Alberta physiologist earns top national honor for spinal cord research
Dr. Richard Stein has been awarded the Barbara Turnbull Award for Spinal Cord Research, a $50,000 prize, for his work on direct, microelectrical spinal cord stimulation. His innovative device aims to record sensory feedback from muscles and nerves in legs and hips to help paralyzed individuals walk.
Trainor Lab characterizes gene essential for prenatal development of nervous system
Researchers from the Trainor Lab have characterized a crucial gene that regulates neural cell differentiation and proliferation during embryonic development. The study reveals how this gene, Cux2, integrates cell cycle progression with neural progenitor differentiation to shape the spinal cord.
Huge drop in preterm birth-risk among women taking folic acid 1 year before conception
A new study suggests that taking folic acid supplements for at least one year before pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of premature birth. The research found a 50-70% decrease in early preterm deliveries, with the greatest reduction seen in very early premature births.
UCLA scientists restore walking after spinal cord injury
Researchers discovered that the central nervous system can reorganize itself and follow new pathways to restore cellular communication required for movement. The study, published in Nature Medicine, shows that most mice regained mobility within eight weeks after spinal cord damage was induced.
Salk scientists identify key nerve navigation pathway
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified a key signal guiding motor neuron navigation, Magellan, which helps them reach their target destinations. The mutation affects the structure of growing neurons, causing them to lose direction and form abnormal 'kinks' or coils.
New study finds blood-spinal cord barrier compromised in mice with ALS
A study published in PLOS ONE found that mice with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have a compromised blood-spinal cord barrier, leading to vascular leakage and potential mechanisms for motor neuron damage. Researchers hope this finding will lead to the development of new treatments targeting the barrier's repair.
UCSD findings could lead to new therapy for spinal cord injury-induced spasticity and rigidity
Scientists at UCSD School of Medicine identified a potential new therapy for chronic spasticity and rigidity, a painful condition often resulting from spinal cord injuries. They found that the AMPA receptor antagonist NGX424 suppresses spasticity and rigidity in rats, providing a novel means of reducing muscle tone.
Stem cell therapy rescues motor neurons in ALS model
A team of scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has shown that stem cells engineered to secrete a key growth factor can protect motor neurons characteristic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but not restore muscle connections. The study demonstrates promise for cell-based therapies in diseases with few treatment options.
Scratch no more: Gene for itch sensation discovered
Researchers discovered the GRPR gene, which codes for a receptor involved in transmitting itch signals from the skin to the brain. Laboratory mice lacking this gene scratched less when exposed to itchy stimuli, suggesting a potential target for anti-itch medication.
Radiation therapy combined with microsurgery shows promise for curing injured spinal cord
Researchers found that combining radiation therapy and microsurgery can significantly increase the body's ability to repair damaged spinal cords, leading to permanent recovery. The treatment, which involves draining excess fluids and eliminating damaging cells, showed a nearly two-fold improvement in wound healing compared to untreated...
Human stem cell treatment restores motor function in paralyzed rats
Researchers at UC San Diego report that grafting human spinal stem cells into paralyzed rats restored ambulatory function within six weeks. The study demonstrates the potential of stem cell therapy to reconstruct neural circuitry and treat debilitating muscle spasticity.
Clemson bioengineer gets national boost
Xuejun Wen aims to repair spinal cord nerves using tissue engineering and implantable bridging devices. His research has the potential to improve lives and generate commercial interest.
Information processing in the central nervous system: the signalling system controlling movement
Research reveals how interneurones process information from senses and brain to control movement, with persistent sodium current playing a critical role. Abnormal regulation of this current may impair motor command integration, affecting normal movement patterns.
Novel salamander robot crawls its way up the evolutionary ladder
A group of European researchers developed a spinal cord model and implemented it in an amphibious salamander-like robot. The robot changes its speed and gait in response to simple electrical signals, suggesting that the distributed neural system in the spinal cord holds the key to vertebrates' complex locomotor capabilities.
Fast and slow -- How the spinal cord controls the speed of movement
Researchers mapped neurons in zebrafish spinal cords to understand how they control movement speed, revealing a surprising pattern that regulates slow and fast movements. The study opens a door to basic understanding of spinal cord architecture and function.
Biomedical engineers advance on 'smart bladder pacemaker'
A 'smart bladder pacemaker' developed by Duke University researchers selectively coordinates the contraction and release of muscles required for maintaining continence. The device taps into the urinary circuit in the spinal cord, effectively emptying the bladder and increasing bladder capacity.
Human stem cell transplants mature into neurons and make contacts in rat spinal cord
Researchers have successfully transplanted human nerve stem cells into rats' damaged spinal cords, which survived, grew, and formed connections with native cells. The breakthrough establishes a new doctrine for regenerative neuroscience, suggesting the spinal cord can support transplanted cell development.
Neuronal differentiation of human neural stem cell grafts in adult rat spinal cord
Researchers successfully differentiated human neural stem cell grafts into functional neurons in the spinal cord of adult rats, growing axons and forming synapses with motor neurons. However, further studies are needed to determine whether these cells can function correctly and provide benefits for patients.
Scientific Research Highlights -- 23rd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Pain Medicine
Researchers investigated opioid analgesic abuse and found it is more prevalent in rural areas, with teenagers increasingly affected. Spinal cord stimulation also showed significant results in managing axial low back pain associated with failed back surgery syndrome.
New technique holds promise for reducing back surgery failure
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch discovered a potential method to prevent failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) by applying a local anesthetic, Lidocaine, to the exposed spinal cord before surgery. The technique successfully blocked the release of chemicals associated with FBSS and reduced sensitivity in rats.
Thinking with the spinal cord?
Researchers have discovered that spinal cord neurons show irregular firing patterns during network activity, similar to the cerebral cortex. This finding enables exploration of how spinal cords generate movements, shedding light on the complex system controlling human motion.
Barrow receives two grants worth a total of 900,000 from the ABRC
Researchers at Barrow and Arizona State University will develop new hydrogels to stimulate spinal cord growth and treat brain tumors. The studies aim to improve treatment options for patients with malignant brain tumors and spinal cord injuries, building on the center's reputation as a top neuroscience hub.
Leading neurobiologist receives Barbara Turnbull Award for contribution to spinal cord research
Dr. Pierre Drapeau's research on zebrafish embryos has led to the discovery of signaling between nerve cells' importance in spinal cord development and growth. The $50,000 Barbara Turnbull Award supports his work towards understanding spinal cord repair and potentially treating diseases such as schizophrenia and autism.
Leading Montreal neurobiologist to receive Barbara Turnbull Award for spinal cord research
Dr. Pierre Drapeau is being awarded the highest distinction in Canadian spinal cord research for his pioneering study of spinal cord development using the zebrafish embryo. This groundbreaking work has opened new avenues for understanding vertebrate development and genetics.
Advance helps explain stem cell behavior
Researchers at Oregon State University developed a new method to identify DNA-binding transcription factors that help steer stem cells. The study, announced in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, used mouse embryonic spinal cord as a model and identified the subset of genes involved in producing various cell types.
Identification of a key gene required for brain neural circuit formation
A key gene, Boc, has been identified as crucial for brain neural circuit formation and axon guidance in the nervous system. This discovery could lead to novel strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and spinal cord injuries.
Spinal cord bridge bypasses injury to restore mobility
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a method to bypass spinal cord injuries by regenerating severed nerve fibers and reconnecting them with the spinal cord. The treatment, using an enzyme called chondroitinase, resulted in improved mobility in rats with impaired motor functions.
Scientists coax nerve fibers to regrow after spinal cord injury
Researchers at Johns Hopkins and the University of Michigan have developed a treatment that helps spinal cord nerves regrow after injury. Using an enzyme called sialidase, they increased the number of new nerve fibers in injured rats by more than twice, compared to untreated controls.
Preventing spinal cord injury during aortic surgery
Researchers found that diazoxide prevented hind limb paralysis in rabbits, improving mobility despite impaired hopping. Mitochondrial damage was significantly reduced with diazoxide treatment, reducing reactive oxygen species and oxidative DNA damage.
Striking the right balance between excitation and inhibition
A study by Martyn Goulding and colleagues reveals that the Notch receptor protein determines whether a single progenitor cell produces excitatory or inhibitory neurons. The researchers found that activated Notch promotes excitatory neuron formation, while low levels of Notch lead to inhibitory neuron development.
Discoveries should aid research into cause of ALS
Researchers discovered a mechanism by which misfolded SOD1 proteins form aggregates that kill motor neurons in ALS. The normal form of SOD1 is recruited to participate in disease formation through intermolecular disulfide bonds, providing potential sites for therapeutic intervention.
Salk researchers make fast strides towards understanding how our body controls walking
Researchers at the Salk Institute identified V1 neurons as crucial for controlling rhythmic movements in the spinal cord, which enables walking. Disabling these neurons slows down the movement, highlighting their importance in locomotion.
Barbara Turnbull Award honours leading spinal cord researcher
Dr. Joseph Culotti's research into nerve cell growth and migration may lead to future spinal cord repair processes. He was awarded the $50,000 Barbara Turnbull Prize in recognition of his contributions to world-leading spinal cord research in Canada.
NJIT engineer poised to take stem cell research a step forward
Treena Arinzeh, a NJIT engineer, has received two new grants to develop stem cell therapies for spinal cord and cartilage injuries. Her research aims to regenerate nerve tissue and promote bone growth using nano-scaffolds.
Surgery can ease sleep problems for those with brain malformations
A study published in Neurology found that over 70% of people with Chiari Malformations experience sleep apnea and daytime sleepiness. Surgery to relieve compression on the brain stem improved symptoms, reducing central sleep apnea occurrences by 90% and micro-arousals by 30%.
Researchers identify key protein involved in neuropathic pain
Microglia have been found to play a crucial role in neuropathic pain by releasing Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF). BDNF disrupts inhibition in the spinal cord, leading to abnormal pain signals. The discovery offers new hope for diagnostics and treatment of chronic pain.
New study identifies key gene in development of connections between brain and spinal cord
A new study found that Fezl is necessary for proper development of neural connections to the spinal cord. In developing mice lacking the Fezl gene, normal connections failed to form, and brain cells made inappropriate connections instead.
Pilot study shows that chronic fatigue syndrome may be a legitimate condition, probably neurological
A pilot study published in BMC Neurology identified 16 proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid of CFS patients that are not found in healthy individuals, potentially providing a biosignature for diagnosis. The study concludes that chronic fatigue syndrome may be a legitimate neurological disease.
Scientists crack code for motor neuron wiring
Researchers mapped Hox protein expression patterns to understand motor neuron wiring and diversification. The code governs columnar, divisional, and pool identities, enabling precise connections between neurons and muscles.
Johns Hopkins researchers discover key protein linked to transverse myelitis and multiple sclerosis
Johns Hopkins researchers identify elevated levels of IL-6 in spinal fluid of patients with transverse myelitis, a condition that can lead to permanent paralysis. The study also found correlations between IL-6 levels and disease severity, shedding light on the mechanisms behind demyelinating disorders.
A cytokine not kind to an injury of the spine
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found elevated IL-6 levels correlate with tissue injury and clinical disability in Transverse Myelitis (TM) patients. Elevated IL-6 levels are necessary and sufficient to mediate neural injury, dependent on nitric oxide.
Water channel protein implicated in relative of multiple sclerosis
The study identifies aquaporin-4 as the target molecule of the NMO antibody, a significant finding that deviates from previous research on multiple sclerosis. The discovery may lead to the development of new therapies for neuromyelitis optica and other autoimmune disorders.
Gradient guides nerve growth down spinal cord
A team of researchers at the University of Chicago has identified a gradient of biochemical signals, including Wnt proteins and Ryk receptor, that guide nerve growth down the spinal cord. This discovery offers new insights into how to repair or replace damaged nerves in adults.
Combination therapy leads to partial recovery from spinal cord injury in rats
Researchers found that a combination of precursor cells and gene therapy led to significant improvements in functional recovery from spinal cord injury. The treatment promoted myelination, resulting in improved mobility and electrical activity in the affected area.
Purdue scientists may have found key to halting spinal cord damage
Researchers find high levels of acrolein, a known carcinogen, persist in spinal tissue after injury, contributing to debilitating paralysis. Detoxifying drugs targeting acrolein could treat not only spinal cord damage but also other conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
3D atlas will help navigate the spinal cord
A new project provides a comprehensive map of the rat spinal cord, allowing for seamless navigation between rat and human cords to test hypotheses and relate data. The study will also create a 3D stereotaxic space for experimental and clinical observations.
Scientists infuse rat spinal cords with brain-derived human stem cells
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison successfully infused rat spinal cords with brain-derived human stem cells that secrete neuron-protecting protein GDNF. This approach has shown promise in protecting healthy neurons and prolonging life in ALS-ridden rats, paving the way for potential treatment of other diseases.
No increase in C-sections when epidural analgesia given early in labor
A study of 750 women in spontaneous labor found no significant difference in C-section rates between those receiving spinal and systemic opioids. Early epidural analgesia was also associated with shorter labors and lower pain scores.
Uric acid may help reduce effects of spinal cord injury, Jefferson researchers find
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that uric acid treatment can prevent inflammation and some damage in mice with spinal cord injuries. Uric acid protected spinal cord neurons from peroxynitrite-related damage, allowing mice to recover motor function faster and to a greater extent than those treated with saline.
First blood test to diagnose paralyzing, blinding disease
A new blood test can accurately diagnose neuromyelitis optica (NMO), a debilitating inflammatory disease that destroys the protective myelin sheath around the optic nerve and spinal cord. Early diagnosis with this biomarker enables optimal therapies to be started sooner, potentially lessening the impact of the disease.
Replicating an eel's nerve circuitry may aid paralyzed people
A team of researchers led by Johns Hopkins University is developing a neuroprosthetic implant that could restore locomotion in patients with spinal cord injuries. The device mimics the signals sent by the brain and stimulates dormant control centers to send movement instructions to muscles.
Several new techniques show promise for spinal cord repair
Researchers have found promising results using olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) to form myelin around nerve fibers, improving rats' functionality. Tiny beads releasing the enzyme chondroitinase ABC also enhance axonal growth and recovery of function.
Nerve navigation findings prompt new direction for spinal cord research
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have found that an enzyme called focal adhesion kinase plays a crucial role in guiding axons across the midline of the spinal cord during development. This discovery provides new insights into normal nervous system development and offers potential targets for treating spinal cord injuries.