Prior to transplantation, aDRG NSCs were transfected with adeno-associated virus (AAV constructs courtesy of Drs. Brandon K. Harvey and Yun Wang, NIDA, Bethesda, MD) and were prepared as previously described (17) to label the cells with red fluorescent protein (RFP); virus titer was estimated at 4.1 × 1012 viral genomes/ml based on real-time PCR data. At the time of spinal cord injury, 4.3 × 104 RFP aDRG NSCs were transplanted directly into the injury site at T10. Surgical procedures, anesthesia, and wound closure were followed as detailed above.
