The combination of db-cAMP and ChABC with poly(propylene carbonate) microfibers promote axonal regenerative sprouting and functional recovery after spinal cord hemisection injury

This study describes the use of poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC) electrospun microfibres impregnated with a combination of dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate (db-cAMP) and chondroitinase ABC (ChABC) in the treatment of right-side hemisected spinal cord injury (SCI). Release of db-cAMP and/or ChABC from the microfibres was assessed in vitro using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Drug-impregnated microfibres were implanted into the hemisected thoracic spinal cord of rats, and treatment was evaluated using functional recovery examinations and immunohistochemistry. Our results demonstrated that the microfibres containing db-cAMP and/or ChABC displayed a stable and prolonged release of each agent. Sustained delivery of db-cAMP and/or ChABC was found to promote axonal regenerative sprouting, functional recovery, and reduced glial scar formation when compared to untreated control animals. The combination of both db-cAMP and ChABC was determined to be more effective than using either drug alone in the treatment of SCI. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of using PPC electrospun microfibres for multi-drug combination therapy in SCI.