Chemical priming for spinal cord injury: a review of the literature part II-potential therapeutics.

INTRODUCTION: Spinal cord injury is a complex cascade of reactions secondary to the initial mechanical trauma that puts into action the innate properties of the injured cells, the circulatory, inflammatory, and chemical status around them, into a non-permissive and destructive environment for neuronal function and regeneration. Priming means putting a cell, in a state of "arousal" towards better function. Priming can be mechanical as trauma is known to enhance activity in cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive review of the literature was performed to better understand the possible chemical primers used for spinal cord injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, many studies have shown various promising results using the substances outlined herein for treating SCI.

Chemical priming for spinal cord injury: a review of the literature. Part I-factors involved.

INTRODUCTION: There are significant differences between the propensity of neural regeneration between the central and peripheral nervous systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Following a review of the literature, we describe the role of growth factors, guiding factors, and neurite outgrowth inhibitors in the physiology and development of the nervous system as well as the pathophysiology of the spinal cord. We also detail their therapeutic role as well as those of other chemical substances that have recently been found to modify regrowth following cord injury. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple factors appear to have promising futures for the possibility of improving spinal cord injury following injury.