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 paralyzed. 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.
Neuroscience Network
Phone: (514) 937-6011 ext. 2514; Fax: (514) 934-8216