Project 5

" Acceleration of large animal studies (the development of the model of spontaneous complete paraplegia in the dog) as a prelude to clinical trials."

Project Description

Objective:

To prequalify, in a clinically relevant model of complete paraplegia in the dog, the optimum combination of cells, matrix and rehabilitation to invoke functional recovery.

Aims:

• The principle goal of this program is to develop an acellular, structurally and biochemically intact matrix that can be used for spinal cord injury repair.
• Using a novel acellular processing technology (LifeCell Corp.), we will test the effectiveness of tissue derived from dermis, spinal cord and peripheral nerve to bridge areas of injury in the spinal cord and to promote regeneration while inhibiting scar formation.
• To prequalify, in the clinically relevant model of complete paraplegia in the dog, the optimum combination of cells, matrix and rehabilitation determined from our rodent screening model (This project is proudly supported by the Transport Accident Commission).

Research Update:

October, 2011

Here’s where you come in.

We need your help
to speed things along.

We need your support to continue to connect the world’s leading researchers and clinicians with spinal cord patients and their families to remove the barriers and find a solution today and not tomorrow.

That’s the
StepAhead Australia
challenge to you.