• Jike Lu and Ken Ashwell.
• School of Anatomy, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
• Spine. 2002 Apr 15;27(8):887-92.

Study DesignThe literature concerning the potential use of olfactory ensheathing cells for repairing damaged spinal cord was reviewed.ObjectiveTo engender a better understanding of the role that olfactory ensheathing cells play in spinal cord regeneration.Summary Of Background DataIntraspinal transplants (e.g., fetal neuronal cells, progenitor stem cells, and olfactory ensheathing cells) have been used to restore intraspinal circuitry or to serve as a "bridge" for damaged axons. Among these transplants, olfactory ensheathing cells provide a particularly favorable substrate for spinal axonal regeneration because these cells can secrete extracellular molecules and neurotrophic factors and have the ability to migrate into gliotic scar tissue, an important attribute that might be associated with high potential for axonal regeneration.MethodsRecent advances using centrally and peripherally derived olfactory ensheathing cells to promote spinal cord regeneration were reviewed.ResultsBoth centrally and peripherally derived olfactory ensheathing cells can lead to a degree of functional and anatomic recovery after spinal cord injury in adult animals.ConclusionOlfactory ensheathing cells from olfactory lamina propria in the nose are among the best transplants for "bridging" descending and ascending pathways in damaged spinal cord.

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