{"id":"7a6d1d0f-eb2e-4a1c-895f-66ab0b0ff3cc","slug":"the-rise-of-transplantation-neurosurgery-spinal-cord-eye-brain","title":"The rise of transplantation neurosurgery: Spinal cord, eye, brain","authors":["Sergio Canavero","Michail V. Lebenstein-Gumovski","C-Y Kim"],"abstract":"Background: Transplantation of organs and tissues has advanced significantly since 1954, yet the central nervous system (CNS) remains a challenging frontier. Despite ongoing trials involving cell grafts for spinal cord injuries and retinal diseases, full transplantation of spinal cord segments or whole brains faces insurmountable biological and ethical challenges. Recent developments in nerve fusion technology, particularly the GEMINI SC fusion protocol, aim to facilitate spinal cord transplantation and optic nerve reconstruction. Summary: The GEMINI SC fusion protocol leverages neuroanatomical pathways that allow for functional reconnection after spinal cord injury. This approach utilizes fusogens like Polyethylene Glycol and Chitosan to promote rapid recovery of sensory and motor functions following spinal cord transection. Animal studies have shown promising results, indicating that fusogens can lead to near-complete recovery of function, especially when combined with electrical stimulation techniques. Conclusion: The potential for spinal cord transplantation and other CNS transplantations is becoming more feasible with advancements in fusion technology and understanding of neural pathways. While challenges remain, particularly regarding the ethical implications and biological complexities, ongoing research may pave the way for significant breakthroughs in neurosurgery and neurorehabilitation. Keywords: transplantation, spinal cord, neurosurgery, GEMINI SC fusion, fusogens, neural regeneration, ethical challenges, CNS","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/7a6d1d0f-eb2e-4a1c-895f-66ab0b0ff3cc/featured/hero-1781558975034.png","publishDate":"2024-12-27T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_945_2024","categories":["Spine","Editorial"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/api/articles/7a6d1d0f-eb2e-4a1c-895f-66ab0b0ff3cc/pdf"}