The following table is a list of publications documenting the areas of spinal cord injury research. These topics and areas of research have been categorized and identified into pathways by researchers that reflect the scientific journey of restorative/curative applications for people with spinal cord injuries. 

Disclaimer: this is the CSRO’s organization of SCI research topics, it may not categorize all research, but highlights the major areas for SCI cure research.

Neuro-protection

Seeks to protect surviving cells from further damage

ACUTE PHASE

Neuro-regeneration

Seeks to repair damaged nerves and stimulate growth

CHRONIC PHASE

Including:

Breakdown Gilal Scar

  • Chondroitinase ABC*
  • SPG* Reduction Peptide

Increase Axonal Growth

  • 3D Printed Neuro Scaffolds
  • Growth-promoting cells
  • Growth factors
  • Gene therapy

Re-Myleination of Axons

  • Glycoproteins
  • NOGO A
  • Oligodendrocytes

Neuro-replacement

Seeks to replace damaged nerve cells with new cells

CHRONIC PHASE

Including:

Stem Cells

  • Neuro Stem Cell Scaffold

Glial Cells (Enteric)

Olfactory Ensheathing Cells

Neuro-plasticity

Seeks to retrain parts that remain undamaged

CHRONIC PHASE

Including:

Spinal Neuromodulation

  • Epidural Electrical Spinal Stimulation**
  • Transcutaneous Electrical Spinal Stimulation**

Activity-Based Therapy

  • FES
  • PALT

Bio-Mechanics

Seeks to bridge the injury or supplement function

CHRONIC PHASE

Including:

BMI – Brain Machine Interface

Robotic Exoskeletons

 

*Denotes results in animals
** Denotes results in humans