Adipose tissue-derived stromal cells enhance glycolytic metabolism in injured nerve cells via the FOXK1-HK2 axis for spinal cord injury repair.

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

BACKGROUND: Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes severe energy metabolism dysfunction, hindering neuronal survival and recovery. Adipose tissue-derived stromal cells (ADSCs) have neuroprotective potential, but their role in regulating neuronal energy metabolism and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether ADSCs are capable of restoring neuronal glycolysis through the FOXK1-HK2 signaling pathway, thereby replenishing the energy supply and facilitating tissue regeneration. METHODS: We employed rat and cell models of SCI to observe the effects of ADSCs on glycolytic metabolism and apoptosis. Transcriptome sequencing identified glycolysis-related differentially expressed genes. Lactate detection and Seahorse assays were used to quantify glycolytic activity. Dual-luciferase reporter assays verified the FOXK1-HK2 regulatory relationship. Cut&Run assay provided direct evidence of FOXK1 binding to the HK2 promoter. Behavioral tests, histopathological staining and immunofluorescence were used to evaluate in vivo functional recovery and tissue repair. FOXK1 knockdown confirmed its role in the ADSC-mediated pathway. RESULTS: We found that ADSCs exerted multiple protective and regulatory effects on neurons and motor function. Specifically, they strongly inhibited neuronal oxidative stress, protected mitochondria, and promoted neuronal metabolic reprogram

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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