Traumatic spinal cord injury caused by a powerful impact can
result in a spinal cord break, a gap that makes it impossible for
nerve impulses to travel from the body to the brain. The result can
be paralysis, or health issues such as loss of mobility, loss of
temperature control, respiratory difficulties and chronic pain.
UBC researchers are spearheading a groundbreaking funding for a
project to develop special treatments for spinal cord injuries
(SCI). This initiative, funded by the Canadian government and led
by Dr. Brian Kwon, aims to transform SCI care through innovative
approaches, including new biomarkers, advanced imaging, and
potential regenerative therapies.
Their Mend
the Gap project recently received $24 million from Canada's
New Frontiers in Research Fund to further their work on using soft
gels containing tiny magnetic filaments, or rods, to guide
reconnection and regrowth between the brain and the body.
