11 research outputs found
Hydrogel-based scaffolds to support intrathecal stem cell transplantation as a gateway to the spinal cord: clinical needs, biomaterials, and imaging technologies
The prospects for cell replacement in spinal cord diseases are impeded by inefficient stem
cell delivery. The deep location of the spinal cord and complex surgical access, as well as
densely packed vital structures, question the feasibility of the widespread use of multiple
spinal cord punctures to inject stem cells. Disorders characterized by disseminated
pathology are particularly appealing for the distribution of cells globally throughout the
spinal cord in a minimally invasive fashion. The intrathecal space, with access to a
relatively large surface area along the spinal cord, is an attractive route for global stem cell
delivery, and, indeed, is highly promising, but the success of this approach relies on the
ability of cells 1) to survive in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 2) to adhere to the spinal cord
surface, and 3) to migrate, ultimately, into the parenchyma. Intrathecal infusion of cell
suspension, however, has been insufficient and we postulate that embedding
transplanted cells within hydrogel scaffolds will facilitate reaching these goals. In this
review, we focus on practical considerations that render the intrathecal approach clinically
viable, and then discuss the characteristics of various biomaterials that are suitable to
serve as scaffolds. We also propose strategies to modulate the local microenvironment
with nanoparticle carriers to improve the functionality of cellular grafts. Finally, we
provide an overview of imaging modalities for in vivo monitoring and characterization of
biomaterials and stem cells. This comprehensive review should serve as a guide for those
planning pre-clinical and clinical studies on intrathecal stem cell transplantation.Funds provided under the project NanoTech4ALS (ref. ENMed/0008/2015, 13/EuroNanoMed/2016), funded under the EU FP7 M-ERA.NET program, Strategmed 1/233209/12/NCBIR/2015, and NIH R01 NS091100. The FCT distinction attributed to J.M.O. under the Investigator FCT program (IF/01285/2015) is also gratefully acknowledgedinfo:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio
Effect of olopatadine hydrochloride, a novel antiallergic agent, on the QT interval in dogs.
The distribution of the tax burden and the income distribution: theory and empirical evidence
Psychiatric symptoms in alcoholics attending outpatient treatment
The importance of psychiatric symptomatology for the treatment course of alcoholics was analyzed in a long-term outpatient treatment study. Seventy-two patients, 60 men and 12 women, were personally interviewed during treatment and after 3 years. Before treatment psychiatric symptoms were rated according to the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS). Women had significantly higher scores than men. Men with many symptoms and women had more psychological benefits from drinking and a more impaired personality structure than men with few symptoms. Men with many symptoms also had a lower level of social functioning. The severity of abuse did not differ between the three groups. Men with many symptoms had a less favorable outcome between 25 and 36 months after start of treatment than men with few symptoms and women. Among men who completed treatment, those with many symptoms showed a less successful course after 6 months and during the 3rd year after start of treatment, while differences after 3 months and during later stages of treatment were less pronounced. It is suggested that before start of treatment a psychiatric evaluation should be performed including psychiatric diagnosis, personality analysis, and an assessment of psychological benefits from drinking