Metabolic Dysregulation In Spinal Cord Injuries (Experimental Study)

Abstract

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) represent a devastating condition with profound physical, psychological, and socioeconomic consequences. While the primary mechanical damage is irreversible, the secondary injury phase—characterized by complex biochemical and metabolic changes—plays a critical role in determining the extent of tissue damage and functional outcomes. Among these secondary mechanisms, metabolic dysregulation emerges as a key contributor to neuronal degeneration and impaired recovery. This experimental study aims to investigate the temporal and spatial alterations in metabolic pathways following SCI, with a focus on glucose metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction, lipid peroxidation, and amino acid imbalances.

Using a well-established rodent model of contusion-induced SCI, we will assess metabolic changes at acute (24–72 hours), subacute (7–14 days), and chronic (28–56 days) time points post-injury. Advanced techniques such as metabolomics, enzymatic assays, and mitochondrial respiration analysis will be employed to quantify changes in key metabolites, energy substrates, and oxidative stress markers. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses will complement these findings by correlating metabolic alterations with structural damage and cellular responses in the injured spinal cord.

Preliminary data from pilot studies suggest significant disruptions in glucose utilization, marked by decreased ATP production and increased lactate accumulation, indicative of a shift toward anaerobic metabolism. Mitochondrial dysfunction, evidenced by elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced oxidative phosphorylation capacity, further exacerbates cellular energy deficits. Additionally, lipid peroxidation and altered amino acid profiles are expected to contribute to membrane instability and excitotoxicity, respectively.

The findings of this study will provide novel insights into the mechanisms underlying metabolic dysregulation in SCI and its impact on tissue repair and functional recovery. By identifying key metabolic pathways involved in secondary injury, this research may pave the way for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies, such as metabolic modulators, antioxidants, or dietary interventions, to mitigate damage and enhance recovery. Ultimately, this work aims to bridge the gap between experimental research and clinical applications, offering hope for improved outcomes in individuals living with spinal cord injuries.