Construction of functional neural network tissue combining CBD-NT3-modified linear-ordered collagen scaffold and TrkC-modified iPSC-derived neural stem cells for spinal cord injury repair

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be personalized and differentiated into neural stem cells (NSCs), thereby effectively providing a source of transplanted cells for spinal cord injury (SCI). To further improve the repair efficiency of SCI, we designed a functional neural network tissue based on TrkC-modified iPSC-derived NSCs and a CBD-NT3-modified linear-ordered collagen scaffold (LOCS). We confirmed that transplantation of this tissue regenerated neurons and synapses, improved the microenvironment of the injured area, enhanced remodeling of the extracellular matrix, and promoted functional recovery of the hind limbs in a rat SCI model with complete transection. RNA sequencing and metabolomic analyses also confirmed the repair effect of this tissue from multiple perspectives and revealed its potential mechanism for treating SCI. Together, we constructed a functional neural network tissue using human iPSCs-derived NSCs as seed cells based on the interaction of receptors and ligands for the first time. This tissue can effectively improve the therapeutic effect of SCI, thus confirming the feasibility of human iPSCs-derived NSCs and LOCS for SCI repair and providing a valuable direction for SCI research.