Extracellular matrix components as therapeutics for spinal cord injury

Abstract

There is no treatment for people with spinal cord injury that leads to significant functional improvements. The extracellular matrix is an intricate, 3-dimensional, structural framework that defines the environment for cells in the central nervous system. The components of extracellular matrix have signaling and regulatory roles in the fate and function of neuronal and non-neuronal cells in the central nervous system. This review discusses the therapeutic potential of extracellular matrix components for spinal cord repair.

Keywords: Axon growth; Central nervous system; Collagen; ECM; Fibronectin; Glial scar; Laminin; Transplantation.