Abstract
Introduction
NeuroAiD (MLC601 & MLC901)’s neuroprotective capabilities include limiting exaggerated calcium influx, decreasing excitotoxicity, reducing oxidative stress, and preventing glutamate-induced cell death. It has also been shown to facilitate synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, and neuroplasticity. However, its clinical efficacy has primarily been studied in the context of brain injuries, particularly stroke. NeuroAiD’s potential application in SCI remains largely untapped.
Case presentation
A 34-year-old male presented with C4 complete tetraplegia. Following surgical decompression and initial inpatient rehabilitation, he started consuming MLC901 two capsules three times daily at month 4 post injury for 6 months. He regained considerable neurological recovery following the supplementation. Apart from the improvement in the neurological level of injury, the patient exhibited motor recovery beyond the initial zone of partial preservation up to 24 months post injury.
Discussion
Our findings align with a recent animal study demonstrating MLC901’s potential to downregulate Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), a molecule known to increase vascular permeability and exacerbate tissue edema and infarction. In another animal study involving stroke-affected mice, MLC901 demonstrates the ability to promote neurological recovery by regulating the expression of proteins mediating angiogenesis, such as hypoxic inducible factor 1α, erythropoietin, angiopoietins 1 and 2, as well as VEGF. The anecdotal findings from this case report offer preliminary insights into NeuroAiD’s potential in facilitating recovery during post-acute and chronic phases of severe SCI, necessitating further exploration.
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MFZ was responsible for the formulation of the concept and design of the study, literature search, data collection and processing, analysis, and interpretation of the results, writing the manuscript, preparation of the table and figure, and reviewing and approving the final version of the manuscript. SAAH was responsible for the design of the study, literature search, analysis and interpretation of the results, and writing, reviewing, and approving the final version of the manuscript. NYK was responsible for the design of the study, literature search, writing, reviewing, and approving the final version of the manuscript.
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This research has been conducted with the ethical approval of the National Medical Research Register Malaysia (NMRR ID-23-00237-EE9). Informed consent was also obtained from the patient prior to the development of this manuscript.
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Zainudin, M.F., Abu Hassan, S.A. & Khin, N.Y. Facilitation of neurological recovery in a complete spinal cord injury with NeuroAiD: case report. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 10, 16 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-024-00632-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-024-00632-7
