Spinal cord repair: bridging the divide.

The normal spinal cord coordinates movement and sensation in the body. It is a complex organ containing nerve cells, supporting cells, and nerve fibers to and from the brain. The spinal cord is arranged in segments, with higher segments controlling movement and sensation in the upper parts of the body and lower segments controlling the lower parts of the body. Recent notable discoveries in the fields of neuroscience and cell biology have ensured that many more people survive injuries to the brain and spinal cord. The consequences of injury reflect this organization. Although these developments have been mirrored by significant strides in our understanding of the evolution and pathology of spinal injuries, complete repair of structure and hence function remain elusive. Most spinal cord injuries still cause lifelong disability, and continued research is critically needed. Here we review the molecular and cellular processes that occur during the evolution of an injury to the central nervous system. Throughout, we highlight several promising therapies aimed to restore the disrupted connections in the brain and spinal cord. These, used in combination with supportive care and rehabilitation strategies, may help patients to achieve significant long-term recovery.