Researchers at Pitt are exploring the use of epidural spinal cord stimulation (eSCS) as a novel approach for enhancing breathing function in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. Current electrotherapeutic approaches, such as phrenic nerve and diaphragm pacers, have not been effective in improving breathing control in individuals with neurodegenerative conditions.
Description
SCS has emerged as a promising therapy promoting movement recovery in paralyzed patients. Through direct modulation of sensory neurons, SCSs enhance sensory-motor firing synchronization, restoring leg control and walking. The central hypothesis guiding the proposal is that SCSs restore motoneuron firing output, prolong motoneuron survival, and preserve movement control within a mouse model of neurodegenerative disease, with the potential for clinical trials in humans with ALS.
Applications
- Neurodegenerative diseases
- Movement recovery
- Paralyzed patients
Advantages
The researchers propose that eSCS represents an alternative method that operates through distinct mechanisms to enhance respiratory motor control in this patient population. This is based on preliminary data suggesting that eSCS can be used to preserve breathing function in neurodegenerative diseases, whereas previous applications of spinal cord stimulation have focused on restoring motor activity in conditions like stroke, spinal cord injury, and paralysis.
Invention Readiness
This technology is at the concept level. Aim 1 involves a 4-week SCS placement and intramuscular injection of retrograde AAV5-Chat-tdTomato tracer in mice to study the effects of SCS on motoneuron function and survival. Aim 2 aims to determine if SCS-treated mice exhibit higher motor functional scores compared to sham-treated mice through weight measurements, rotarod testing, and open field analysis. The research plan also outlines the use of c-fos labeling for motoneuron recruitment and NMJ analysis to assess the efficacy of SCS treatment.
IP Status
Patent pending
