Effect of Chitosan-based Hydrogel Injection on Repair of Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) often result in debilitating neurological deficits and pose significant challenges for effective treatment and rehabilitation. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of hydrogel injection as a strategy to promote recovery following SCI in rats. We developed a biocompatible hydrogel formulation based on chitosan polymer, designed to mimic the extracellular matrix and provide a supportive environment for cellular infiltration and regeneration. In a controlled preclinical SCI rat model, we administered hydrogel injections at the injury site and assessed outcomes through behavioral tests, histological analysis, and immunohistochemistry. Our results demonstrate that hydrogel injection significantly enhances functional recovery, reduces inflammation, and promotes axonal regeneration compared to control groups. Furthermore, the hydrogel effectively delivered neuroprotective factors, facilitating neuronal survival and tissue repair. These findings suggest that hydrogel injection represents a promising approach to augment recovery after SCI, highlighting its potential for clinical translation. Future studies will focus on optimizing hydrogel properties and delivery methods to maximize therapeutic efficacy in human applications.

کلیدواژه ها:

Spinal cord injury ، Chitosan ، hydrogel ، regeneration ، inflammation