An Israeli-based biotech company, NurExone Biologic Inc., is pioneering an innovative treatment called ExoPTEN, which presents a groundbreaking approach to addressing acute spinal cord injuries through noninvasive medication. This new therapy, developed through the collaboration of Prof. Shulamit Levenberg of the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology and Prof. Daniel Offen of Tel Aviv University, aims to significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected by such injuries, potentially enabling them to regain mobility.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately 500,000 people worldwide sustain spinal cord injuries annually, primarily due to preventable incidents, including road accidents. Individuals with spinal injuries face a substantially higher risk of premature death and challenges in terms of education and economic stability.
The innovation behind ExoPTEN lies in the utilization of exosomes, nanoscopic particles that facilitate cellular communication, which can permeate cell membranes and the brain-blood barrier—a protective boundary that regulates access to the brain. Exosomes serve as carriers for therapeutic agents directly to the injury site. NurExone’s choice of exosomes derived from bone marrow cells holds promise for cell regeneration in patients with spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries.