Ohio State University scientists deliver PDGF-BB protein to spinal cord injuries, altering pericyte behavior from inhibitory to supportive. This promotes angiogenesis that forms conduits guiding axon regeneration in mice, leading to improved motor function and reduced pain.

Key points

• Single PDGF-BB injection applied seven days post–spinal cord injury in mice.
• PDGF-BB reprograms pericytes to switch from inhibitory to pro-angiogenic phenotype.
• Induced angiogenesis creates vascular scaffolds guiding axonal regeneration.
• Treated mice exhibit restored hind limb motor control and sensory conduction.
• Electrophysiological tests confirm functional neural reconnection and reduced pain.

Why it matters: This approach shifts the paradigm in spinal cord repair by harnessing endogenous pericyte plasticity for vascular-guided axon regeneration. It offers a targeted, protein-based therapy that outperforms cell clearance strategies, paving the way for translational advances in central nervous system trauma.