Labs studying this approach include the Black Lab , the Choi Lab , the Parada Lab and the Cotman Lab . These proteins act as highway road maps to steer axons to the correct targets. Even if axons do survive, it is important that they reconnect with the correct targets. Labs studying this approach include the Mendell Lab , the Parada Lab and the Black Lab . There are molecules within the brain and spinal cord which prevent neurons from dividing and axons from growing.
Overcoming inhibition can stimulate axonal regrowth and regeneration.
In some cases of injury, it will also be necessary to reconstruct the cord in the area around the injury. The Schwab Lab is studying this approach. Stem cells, which are isolated from the CNS and can divide to form new cells, may make it feasible to replace lost neurons and glia. These stem cells need to be harvested, treated to encourage growth and then injected into the injured cord. Labs studying this approach include the Bunge Lab and the Gage Lab .