Abstract: ObjectiveTo explore the migration, effect on axon growth of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) transplanted in contused spinal cord of rats. Methods8 adult female rats were induced spinal cord contusion at T₁₀ cord by NYU impactor (H=25 mm), and received OECs transplantation in 1 mm rostral and caudal to injury site，or injury site. Other 4 adult female rats were uncovered the spinal cord at T_8-10 cord, and injected GFP+OECs at T₁₀ cord. 1 week after transplantation, all animals were executed and the T_8-11 cord (15 mm long) contained the entire injury site were observed for the migration of OECs and immunostained for neurofilament (NF) and myelin basic protein (MBP). ResultsThe OECs injected in injury site largely migrate longitudinally and laterally from the injection site, OECs injected in 1 mm rostral and caudal to injury site of contused spinal cord, migrate longitudinally and laterally from the injection site to the injury site in white and gray matter, and some along the central canal. OECs injected in normal spinal cord migrated longitudinally and laterally from injection site, too. The transplanted OECs expressed a little NF and MBP. ConclusionThe transplanted OECs are able to migrate in spinal cord and promote axon regeneration and remyelination.

Key words: spinal cord contusion, olfactory ensheathing cells, transplantation, migration