Secondary damage (protection of intact cells)
A spinal cord injury is followed by a massive breakdown of neuronal and supporting cells (known as glial cells) around the site of injury. This area of research aims to prevent the secondary damage and therefore preserve more functions for those affected.

Plasticity
Spinal cord injury is accompanied by the release of substances that block the renewed growth of nerves. The aim is to find, analyse and eliminate these substances known as natural growth inhibitors. In the last few years major advancements have been made in this area of research. Additionally it is important to understand the mechanisms underlying the reorganization of the spinal circuitry and interconnections.

Regeneration
When an adult nerve fibre in the central nervous system is completely severed, its ability to regrow is very restricted. Wings for Life funds projects that searching for ways to stimulate nerves to regenerate and regrow.

Neural reconstruction
This area of research aims to replace destroyed tissue by the transplantation of cells and/or biomaterials. Very promising approaches focus on the use of stem cells or prosthetic biomaterials to repair injured spinal cord tissue.

Reducing secondary damage
An advanced area of research relates to treatment options for patients in the early stages after a spinal cord injury. Several pharmacological interventions are currently tested in clinical phase I/II studies, for example Riluzole or Minocycline. These pharmacological therapeutics are reported to reduce additional tissue damage resulting in a better functional recovery of the patients. A recently published study with Minocycline performed at the University of Calgary showed a better outcome in motor functions.

Eliminating growth inhibitors
After a spinal cord injury, there is a lot of cell debris in the spinal tissue which can significantly limit the regeneration of nerves. Various types of cell debris send signals to nerve fibres saying: “Stop. This is a dead end.” For example, one of the stop signs responsible is known to be the protein Nogo. A substance to counteract the effect of Nogo is already being tested in a clinical study for patients in the early stages after a spinal cord injury (Prof. Dr. Martin Schwab, Nogo antibody study by Novartis). In a model for those living with a spinal cord injury as an ongoing condition, Prof. Dr. Stephen M. Strittmatter and his research team have succeeded in blocking several of these stop signs simultaneously and as a result saw marked functional improvements.