Review of “Propranolol and Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Combine to Treat Traumatic Brain Injury” from Stem Cells Translational Medicine by Stuart P. Atkinson
While the initial consequences of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are devastating enough, survivors face varying physical, cognitive, and psychosocial deficits caused by secondary tissue injuries. Analysis of various treatment regimens has suggested that propranolol, a β-adrenergic receptor blocker, can reduce mortality after TBI while mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment can influence long-term behavior via a reduction of the inflammatory environment surrounding the injury site [1]. But can these two modalities combine to give an additive effect [2, 3]?
This is the question that researchers from the laboratory of Scott D. Olson (University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, USA) aimed to answer using controlled cortical impact injury (CCI) in rats to model TBI and secondary effects [4]. They hope their results will culminate in a safe and effective treatment modality for this all too common injury and its consequences. Read more…