Fig. 5

Schematic illustration of Cluster 1: “Pathophysiology of SCI”. The temporal window, which can be counted by day, is of paramount importance in the treatment of SCI. The initial mechanical trauma to the spinal cord initiates a secondary injury cascade in the acute phase (2–48 h): oedema, hemorrhage, ischemia, neuron death, and activation of M1 type microglia. The activation of innate immunity by M1 type microglia leads to the subacute phase (2d–2w): persistent inflammatory cell infiltration and cytokine storm, glia scar formation by astrocytes. Chronic SCI (> 2w): glia scar maturation, cyst formation, and inhibition of axon regeneration. Created with Figdraw.com