Clue to Healing Spinal Cord

A 12-member team in the N.R. Network (neural regeneration and recovery) has Identified one of the reasons why spinal cord injuries do not heal. The finding could have major implications for spinal cord repair. bringing hope to people who are permanently paralysed. The research team, led by Dr. John Steeves of the University of British Columbia (UBC), found that myelin, a fatty substance in the spinal cord of all vertebrates, inhibits the regeneration of nerve fibres after injury. The researchers have successfully suppressed myelin production in embryonic chicks by injecting a specific antibody with serum complement proteins into the spinal cord. This has extended the period for repair of injuries to a later time in the embryonic development than was otherwise possible. More recently, the researchers succeeded in removing myelin from adult chicken and mouse spinal cords using similar procedures. Myelin, which appears relatively late in embryonic development, performs several functions,including the prevention of unwanted nerve fibre growth. This could explain why it inhibits the regeneration of nerve fibres after injury.

"I think this is one essential step towards the possibility of regeneration, although it may not be sufficient by itself," said Dr. Steeves. "Neural development is a complex process. Our work has helped to identify one of the factors that inhibits regeneration," he said. A patent on the myelin suppression technique has been filed through the University of British Columbia.

The UBC team is collaborating with Network researchers at three other universities: Manitoba, McGill and Queen's. "The Network helps create one large super lab: we can take advantage of state-of-the-art research facilities and expertise in participating centres. This is what is necessary to pursue leading research and compete in a large worldwide arena,"noted Dr. Steeves.

The N.R. Network brings together over 100 top scientists in 14 universities across Canada to promote nervous system regeneration and recovery of functions lost as a result of trauma or disease. The Network has established ties with eight industrial affiliates who assist in the practical assessment of research results.