I asked Spinal Research for information on how the money being raised will be used. One of the research initiatives is into the clinical use of an enzyme called chondroitinase. After a SCI, a scar develops at the injury site. That scar blocks the way for re-growing nerves which might otherwise be capable of making useful new connections to restore movement and function. They have discovered that the bacterial enzyme chondroitinase could digest these molecules. That holds out the very real prospect that this most significant obstacle to regeneration might one day be therapeutically overcome. Spinal Research said:
"We now have a path, plan and timeline to take the enzyme chondroitinase to clinical trials. We plan two approaches to development, one by injecting the enzyme directly to the injury site, and the second by using gene therapy before delivery. Gene therapy has demonstrated the most effective results thus far, but it carries a greater number of uncertainties and thus concern for the regulatory authorities. We believe this parallel approach is therefore prudent and provides the greatest opportunity for success.
It’s obviously just one of our areas of work but it’s a huge step in the right direction and a good example how the funds you raise will help us reach clinical trials."
Fantastic to know!!
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