As a spinal cord injury (SCI) specialist provider, we see firsthand how a single event can drastically alter a person’s life. Long viewed as irreversible, recent advances in medical science are now challenging this perception. And we are brimming with hope as we see the potential for what once seemed like a miracle: the ability to stand and walk again.
Three groundbreaking projects are leading the race towards finding a cure, each taking a unique approach to restore mobility and improve the quality of life for those affected by SCI’s. Let’s explore these innovative projects and the hope they bring.
Racing Toward Hope: The Cutting-Edge Projects Aiming to Cure Spinal Cord Injuries
The Spinal Injury Project: Nerve Bridge Transplantation
Led by:Griffith University and the Perry Cross Spinal Research Foundation
Innovation: Olfactory cell transplantation to repair spinal cord injury
Imagine a world where SCI’s can be repaired. It could be possible, within the next five years. The Spinal Injury Project at Griffith University, in collaboration with the Perry Cross Spinal Research Foundation, is making strides towards this vision with a world-first Nerve Bridge Transplantation and Rehabilitation Human Clinical Trial. This pioneering project, directed by Professor James St John, focuses on olfactory cell transplantation to repair spinal cord injuries.
Building on the legacy of Professor Emeritus and Alan Mackay-Sim – who were successful in taking cells from the olfactory (nasal) system, transplanting them to an injury site and demonstrating that it was safe for use in humans – the team has now developed a nerve bridge that significantly enhances cell transplantation techniques. Pre-clinical trials have shown promising results, and the upcoming Nerve Bridge Transplantation and Rehabilitation Human Clinical Trial aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method in humans.
Learn more about the Spinal Injury Project: Perry Cross Spinal Research Foundation
Project BioSpine: Thought-Controlled Rehabilitation
Led by: Griffith University (Menzies Health Institute Queensland), University of Sydney, University of Canterbury, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, and Harvard University
Innovation: Thought-controlled virtual reality to restore motor and sensory functions
Project BioSpine represents a revolutionary approach to neuro-rehabilitation, combining cutting-edge technologies and thought-control to restore motor and sensory functions. This project harnesses the brain’s ability to rewire itself, aiming to restore movement and sensation for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
BioSpine integrates various rehabilitation devices, such as an ergometer, functional electrical stimulation, and wearable biosensors, into a cohesive system controlled by a Digital Twin of the patient’s neuromusculoskeletal system. Patients can use their thoughts to control the intensity of their rehabilitation program, enhancing engagement and outcomes. This innovative therapy promises to return SCI individuals to free movement without assistive devices.
Discover more about Project BioSpine: Griffith University BioSpine
Courtine and Bloch’s System: Spinal Electrode Implants
Led by:Grégoire Courtine and Jocelyne Bloch
Innovation: Spinal electrode implants controlled by an iPad
Grégoire Courtine and Jocelyne Bloch have developed a groundbreaking system that enables individuals with complete SCI’s to stand, walk, and even engage in recreational activities like swimming, cycling, and canoeing. This system uses electrical stimulation to reactivate spinal neurons, mimicking natural brain functions.
Their innovative approach involves implanting soft leads directly on the spinal cord, underneath the vertebrae. These implants modulate neurons that regulate specific muscle groups, allowing patients to control their movements through a simple iPad interface. The results have been astounding, with patients regaining the ability to walk outside the lab and perform various physical activities.
Explore more about Courtine and Bloch’s system: Lausanne University Hospital
While there are many advancements happening each and every day, we find these three projects in particular represent the incredible advancements being made in the field of SCI research. Each project offers it’s own unique approach to restoring mobility and improving the lives of those living with an SCI.
The Spinal Injury Project’s nerve bridge transplantation, Project BioSpine’s thought-controlled rehabilitation, and Courtine and Bloch’s spinal electrode implants all bring us closer to a future where SCI’s are no longer a lifelong injury.
We can only imagine the hope felt by millions around the world.