The spinal cord is part of the central nervous system that extends from the brain. The spinal cord controls movements and rapid reactions to environmental changes. Transection of the spinal cord occurs when tracts are partially or completely disconnected. Transection can result in death, loss of all limbs, and damage to motor and sensory functions. Also, scar tissue that forms after a spinal cord injury creates a barrier to nerve restoration, which causes paralysis from spinal injuries.

Scientists at Liverpool and Glasgow have found that heparin sulfates, which are long chain sugars, play a role in scar formation. Researchers are discovering new ways to manipulate the scarring process and improve cell transplant therapies in spinal cord injury patients. A way to repair nerve damage is to transplant support cells from peripheral nerves, but the scientists discovered that the cells produce heparin sulfate sugars, which promote scarring. However, the scientists found that they could chemically modify heparin which could prevent the scarring.

This discovery could give hope to spinal cord injury patients. By modifying these cells, scientists can now help restore sensations to these patients. The patients could regain some functions one day, allowing them to live normal lives. This could also lead to other types of central nervous system repair, which could become treatments for a number of things.

References:

J. Tortora, Gerald, and Bryan Derrickson. Principles of Anatomy and Physiology. 13th ed. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken NJ, USA  2012. Page 359. Print.

University of Liverpool. “Discovery may help nerve regeneration in spinal injury.” ScienceDaily, 6 Nov. 2012. Web. 7 Nov. 2012.