Immunization with neural derived peptides increases neurogenesis in rats with chronic spinal cord injury

Abstract Background Immunization with neural derived peptides (INDP) has demonstrated to be a promising therapy to achieve a regenerative effect in the chronic phase of the spinal cord injury (SCI). Nevertheless, to date INDP-induced neurogenic effects in the chronic stage of SCI has not been explored. In the present study, we first analyzed the effect of INDP on both motor and sensitive function recovery; afterwards, we assessed neurogenesis and determined the production of cytokines and neurotrophic factors. We analyzed motor and sensitivity recovery using the BBB score and the Von Frey Hair test, respectively. Neurogenesis was evaluated by immunofluorescence. Finally, we examined the expression of IL-4, IL-10, BDNF and GAP-43 using an ELISA assay.Results During the chronic stage of SCI, rats subjected to INDP showed a significant increase in both motor and sensitive recovery when compared to the control group. Moreover, we found a significant increase in neurogenesis, mainly at the central canal and both the dorsal and ventral horns of INDP-treated animals. Finally, INDP induced a significant production of anti-inflammatory and regeneration-associated proteins in the chronic stages of injury.Conclusions These findings suggest that INDP has a neurogenic effect that could improve motor and sensitive recovery in the chronic stage of SCI.