Schwann Cell Transplant for Treating Paralysis
October 30, 2012 | Terry Sharrer
The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, involving three medical centers in Miami, FL, aims to transplant Schwann cells from a patient’s leg to an injury site in the spinal cord. Schwann cells—named for one of the 19th century pioneers of cell theory—are a variety of glial cells that encase peripheral nerve fibers with myelin. In this phase 1 trial, patients within five days of a spinal cord injury will have their Schwann cells drawn and culture for three to five weeks before being transplanted to the injury location. Only eight patients will take part, but their outcomes will be monitored for several years. MORE