Spinal Cord Transplant Moves the Paralyzed Body

The world's first human spinal cord transplant using a patient's own cells, a groundbreaking regenerative medicine procedure aiming to restore mobility for paralyzed individuals by implanting lab-grown spinal cord tissue. Led by Prof. Tal Dvir, the technique involves reprogramming a patient's cells into stem cells, growing them on a hydrogel scaffold into a spinal cord segment, and implanting it to bridge the injury, potentially allowing patients to walk again. 

Key Details of the Procedure:

• Cell Source: Patient's own blood and fatty tissue, minimizing rejection risk.

• Reprogramming: Cells are genetically reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).

• Scaffold: A custom 3D hydrogel is created from the patient's fat tissue.

• Growth: iPSCs are grown on the scaffold, mimicking natural spinal cord development.

• Implantation: The engineered tissue replaces scar tissue at the injury site, aiming to fuse with existing nerves.

• Goal: Restore nerve communication, enabling movement. 

Significance:

• This is a major step beyond preclinical success in animals, moving research into human "compassionate use" trials.

• It represents Israel's leadership in regenerative medicine, with the first surgery planned in Israel. 

This development is seen as a potential medical revolution, offering hope for a functional cure for paralysis.