From the placenta—an organ central to the protection and nourishment of human life—researchers have isolated a protein that may unlock a long-sought solution in medical science: restoring spinal cord function in individuals who have lost mobility due to injury.
Decades of Research Behind a Breakthrough
As reported by Folha de S.Paulo, for the past 25 years, Brazilian researcher Dr Tatiana Coelho de Sampaio, a PhD professor at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, has led a team of biologists studying the regenerative and proliferative properties of the protein laminin. This protein plays a critical role in the nervous system, particularly in nerve repair and regeneration.
Through sustained and meticulous research, the team uncovered laminin’s remarkable capacity to support neural recovery.
Polylaminin Emerges as a World-First Therapy
Building on these findings, the research culminated in the development of polylaminin, a first-in-the-world drug. Cristália Laboratory formally presented the therapy on 9th Sep 2025, highlighting its potential to regenerate the spinal cord in patients who sustained severe injuries from accidents.
These injuries often result in paraplegia, characterised by paralysis of the lower limbs, or quadriplegia, which involves paralysis of both the upper and lower limbs.
Experimental Trials Show Full Functional Recovery
During the experimental phase, clinicians administered polylaminin directly to the spinal cord. As a result, patients experienced complete recovery of motor function, without residual aftereffects.
Moreover, patients were able to resume their daily routines without physical restrictions, marking a potentially transformative milestone in the treatment of spinal cord injuries.