Even in wartime, innovations in science and medicine continue in Israel. Tel Aviv University announced today that the world’s first human spinal cord transplant procedure is set to take place in Israel in the coming month. This surgery, using a patient’s cells to heal damaged spinal cords, may allow paralyzed patients to walk again as The Jerusalem Post reports.
Damage to the spine does not heal because the neurons, which enable movement and control, cannot regenerate or heal like other tissues. Scar tissue instead forms, preventing any real healing. This new, innovative surgery focuses on removing that scarring with reprogrammed cells.
The innovation began about three years ago, when [Professor Tal] Dvir’s lab engineered a personalized three-dimensional human spinal cord in the laboratory. The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Advanced Science, showed that mice with chronic paralysis regained mobility after receiving the engineered implants.
The procedure begins with blood cells from the patient, which are reprogrammed into stem-cell-like cells capable of becoming any cell type. Fat tissue is also collected to create a custom hydrogel scaffold, into which the stem-like cells develop into a spinal cord structure. This engineered tissue is then implanted, replacing scarred areas and reconnecting the nervous system.
Professor Dvir calls the procedure a matter of national pride. There are over 15 million people with spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis, according to the World Health Organization. Prof. Dvir said that he and his team are so proud that Israel is leading an effort to redefine spinal cord care, and they are committed to sharing it with patients worldwide.
