Chicago-based Northwestern Medicine researchers studied the impact of a nanoparticle injection following spinal cord injury, according to Northwestern Now.
Researchers injected mice with SCIs with a nanoparticle injection, composed of poly acid. The FDA has approved the biocompatible substance for re-absorbable sutures.
Here are five takeaways:
1. The mice injected with the nanoparticle could walk better compared to those who didn't receive the injection.
2. The injection works to prevent secondary nerve damage caused by inflammation and internal scarring. The injection does not cure the initial injury.
3. The nanoparticle injection binds the inflammation-causing cells and pushes them toward the spleen.
4. Researchers note the need for further studies to test the the nanoparticle's safety for humans.
5. Stephen Miller, PhD, the Judy Gugenheim Research Professor of Microbiology-Immunology at Chicago-based Feinberg School of Medicine, co-founded Cour Pharmaceuticals Development Co., which is developing the nanoparticle technology.
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