Intrathecal transplantation of cultured calf chromaffin cells attenuate sensory motor dysfunction in a rat model of neuropathic pain

The potential usefulness of chromaffin cells as a source of neuroactive agents for transplantation in the CNS is based on several promising features, including the diversity of biologically active neurotransmitters, neuropeptides and trophic factors produced by the cells. The purpose of this study was to test the possibility that motor as well as sensory dysfunction is reduced by cultured chromaffin cells. For this reason chromaffin cells were isolated from calf adrenal gland and were kept in DMEM-F12 at 37? C for two weeks. One week before transplantation, peripheral neuropathy was induced by a chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve of rats. At the time of transplantation, each rat received 100000-150000 cells. Behavioral tests included radiant heat, paw pinch, and, acetone. Motor function was tested by grasping reflex. The experiments illustrate that chromaffin cells can alleviate sensory and motor dysfunction consequence to peripheral nerve injury. These suggest that adrenal medullary chromaffin cells function as a local long-lasting agent at the spinal segment and further support the potential use of this approach for the treating of chronic pain.