in vivo Reprogramming of NG2 Glia Improves Bladder Function After Spinal Cord Injury

ABSTRACT Neurogenic bladder is a debilitating consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI), with few treatment options that restore voluntary voiding. Here, we show that SOX2-mediated in vivo reprogramming of NG2 glia improves bladder function in a clinically relevant mouse model of contusive SCI. NG2 glia reprogramming induces adult neurogenesis, reduces glial scarring, and significantly improves urinary performance, as measured by voiding assays and conscious cystometry. Functional recovery correlates positively with neurogenesis and negatively with glial scarring. These findings demonstrate that SOX2-mediated glial reprogramming promotes autonomic repair and offers a regenerative strategy for neurogenic bladder after SCI.