Problem

The limited regenerative capacity of adult CNS neurons upon transection results in chronic neurological disability. There is an urgent need to develop novel therapies that facilitate CNS axon regeneration and ultimately restore lost neurological functions.

Solution

• Researchers at OSU have identified a unique granulocyte subset, immature Ly6G^lowCD14⁺ neutrophils, that has neuroprotective properties and drives CNS axon regeneration in vivo, in part via secretion of a cocktail of growth factors
• The neuroregenerative neutrophil subset can be generated in vitro from bone marrow neutrophils by polarization with a cocktail including recombinant IL-4 and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). Polarized neutrophils can be reinfused into individuals with axonal injury, as an autologous cellular therapy.
• Alternatively, systemic or local administration at the injury site of selected mobilizing and polarizing factors could expand endogenous populations of alternatively activated neutrophils. CD14+Ly6Glow neutrophil chemoattractants promote the migration of reparative neutrophils to sites of CNS injury, while blocking the migration of potentially toxic mature neutrophils or other pathogenic leukocytes. The unique combination of growth and neuroprotective factors secreted by the pro-regenerative neutrophils can be administered as a therapeutic cocktail

Applications

• Use neuroregenerative neutrophils as autologous cell therapy for treating neurological disorders and CNS injuries including multiple sclerosis, optic neuritis, ALS, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, CNS infection, Alzheimer's disease.

Advantages

• Versatility: Technology can be adapted to treat different neurological disorders and injuries
• Combination therapy: Therapeutic effects can be augmented synergistically in combination with other stimulating factors

Seeking opportunities for out-licensing, collaboration