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Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation

Jordan Bone makes an appeal on behalf of Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

Jordan Bone makes the Radio 4 Appeal on behalf of Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.
Registered Charity Number 1107671
To Give:
- Freephone 0800 404 8144
- Freepost BBC Radio 4 Appeal. (That's the whole address. Please do not write anything else on the front of the envelope). Mark the back of the envelope 'Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation'
- Cheques should be made payable to 'Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation'.

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4 minutes

Last on

Thu 6 Oct 201615:27
BBC Radio 4

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The Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation

The Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation (nsif) is a small medical research charity. They fund pioneering research into finding a cure for paralysis caused by spinal cord injury. Until recently the reconnection of severed spinal cords was thought impossible – nsif is challenging that with the ground-breaking research they fund.

The science

The science
nsif believe that the answer lies in the sense of smell. The nasal cavity contains special cells (olfactory ensheathing cells). These are transplanted into the injury site using a strip of nerves, which act as a “bridge” over which damaged connections can grow back in the spinal cord.

Clinical trial

Clinical trial
So far nsif have had promising results. The first patient to undergo the procedure is now able to feel sensation below the injury and is able to walk with a frame, ride an adapted tricycle, and reports improved bowel and bladder control. Previously, he was unable to move below his injury.

Future research

Future research

In order for the research to become an effective treatment the procedure must be replicated and refined. The Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation is hoping to fund two new patients through the next clinical trial, with your help.

Broadcasts

  • Sun 2 Oct 201607:54
    BBC Radio 4
  • Sun 2 Oct 201621:26
    BBC Radio 4
  • Thu 6 Oct 201615:27
    BBC Radio 4

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