Adult bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) and olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are individually capable of providing a limited degree of functional recovery in spinal cord injury models. OECs are unique in that their function is to protect and guide re-growing nerve cells. BMSCs are able to promote nerve growth and recovery, possibly through the production of growth factors and communication with the surrounding cells. It is now widely accepted that the best therapy for encouraging the greatest amount of functional recovery from the damaged spinal cord will be to use a combination of treatments. These may include OECs and, or BMSCs, possibly some other cells, together with other treatments that help the regeneration and repair process. Our aim is to provide many of the necessary components for repair.
