FURI | Spring 2021

Lower Motor Neuron Degeneration Following Traumatic Brain Injury

This project aims to determine the extent that traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects lower motor neuron (LMN) degeneration and neurodegeneration within the cervical region of the spinal cord post TBI. The spinal cords were sectioned and slide mounted for immunohistochemical evaluation. Immunostains include morphological and cell-specific staining to detect neurodegeneration. Sections were imaged using microscopy and analyzed for quantification of TBI effects on synaptic connectivity, neuronal degeneration, and neuronal loss. The social benefit of this engineering solution would be a significant improvement of the quality of life of those who are affected by LMN degeneration and neurodegeneration due to TBI.