Toward Assessing the Functional Connectivity of Spinal Neurons.

Spinal interneurons play a critical role in motor output. A given interneuron may receive convergent input from several different sensory modalities and descending centers and relay this information to just as many targets. Therefore, there is a critical need to quantify populations of spinal interneurons simultaneously.

Intrathecal Delivery of BDNF Into the Lumbar Cistern Re-Engages Locomotor Stepping After Spinal Cord Injury.

Delivery of neurotrophins to the spinal injury site via cellular transplants or viral vectors administration has been shown to promote recovery of locomotion in the absence of locomotor training in adult spinalized animals. These delivery methods involved risks of secondary injury to the cord and do not allow for precise and controlled dosing making them unsuitable for clinical applications. The present study was aimed at evaluating the locomotor recovery efficacy and safety of the neurotrophin BDNF delivered intrathecally to the lumbar locomotor centers using an implantable and programmable infusion mini-pump.