Researchers from the University of Cologne have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of medical research, uncovering a new potential treatment for nerve regeneration using a compound found in blessed thistle. The study, titled ‘Cnicin promotes functional nerve regeneration,’ was recently published in the journal Phytomedicine.
Blessed thistle, known scientifically as Cnicus benedictus, has long been utilized for its medicinal properties, commonly in the form of extracts or teas to support digestive health. However, the team led by Dr. Philipp Gobrecht and Professor Dr. Dietmar Fischer has identified a novel application for cnicin, a substance derived from blessed thistle.
The research conducted at the Center for Pharmacology of University Hospital Cologne and the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Cologne revealed that cnicin plays a significant role in accelerating the growth of nerve fibers, known as axons. This accelerated regeneration process could potentially revolutionize the treatment of nerve injuries, which often pose challenges due to the lengthy regeneration pathways.
Animal models and human cell studies, including samples from donated retinas, demonstrated the effectiveness of cnicin in promoting axon regeneration. Administering cnicin orally to mice and rats resulted in improved paralysis and neuropathy outcomes at a faster rate compared to traditional methods.
One key advantage of cnicin over other compounds is its oral administration, eliminating the need for injections. However, the researchers emphasize the importance of determining the correct dosage for optimal results, highlighting the need for further clinical studies to validate its therapeutic potential in humans.
Dr. Fischer emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, ‘The correct dose is very important here, as cnicin only works within a specific therapeutic window. Doses that are too low or too high are ineffective. This is why further clinical studies on humans are crucial.’
As the University of Cologne researchers prepare for upcoming studies, the Center for Pharmacology remains dedicated to developing innovative therapies for repairing the damaged nervous system. The study, ‘Cnicin promotes functional nerve regeneration,’ published in Phytomedicine, opens new possibilities for advancing treatments in the field of neuroscience.
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