The article discusses the challenges of spinal cord and brain injury recovery, focusing on the role of glial scars and inflammation in inhibiting neuronal regeneration. After injury, the central nervous system (CNS) forms a glial scar composed of astrocytes and connective tissue, which is traditionally viewed as a mechanical barrier to regeneration. However, recent research indicates that the scar also contains inhibitory extracellular matrix molecules that prevent axon growth. These molecules, such as proteoglycans, are upregulated during the inflammatory phase following injury and contribute to the nonpermissive environment for regeneration. While high-dose methylprednisolone therapy has not proven effective, other strategies to modulate inflammation and alter the extracellular matrix are showing promise in promoting regeneration. The study highlights the importance of understanding the complex interactions between glial cells, inflammatory responses, and the extracellular matrix in developing effective treatments for CNS injuries. It also emphasizes the potential of modifying inhibitory molecules to allow for functional regeneration, as demonstrated by various experimental approaches, including the use of enzymes to degrade inhibitory proteoglycans and combination therapies involving inflammation and matrix modification. The findings suggest that a multifaceted approach targeting both inflammation and the extracellular matrix is crucial for improving outcomes in spinal cord and brain injuries.The article discusses the challenges of spinal cord and brain injury recovery, focusing on the role of glial scars and inflammation in inhibiting neuronal regeneration. After injury, the central nervous system (CNS) forms a glial scar composed of astrocytes and connective tissue, which is traditionally viewed as a mechanical barrier to regeneration. However, recent research indicates that the scar also contains inhibitory extracellular matrix molecules that prevent axon growth. These molecules, such as proteoglycans, are upregulated during the inflammatory phase following injury and contribute to the nonpermissive environment for regeneration. While high-dose methylprednisolone therapy has not proven effective, other strategies to modulate inflammation and alter the extracellular matrix are showing promise in promoting regeneration. The study highlights the importance of understanding the complex interactions between glial cells, inflammatory responses, and the extracellular matrix in developing effective treatments for CNS injuries. It also emphasizes the potential of modifying inhibitory molecules to allow for functional regeneration, as demonstrated by various experimental approaches, including the use of enzymes to degrade inhibitory proteoglycans and combination therapies involving inflammation and matrix modification. The findings suggest that a multifaceted approach targeting both inflammation and the extracellular matrix is crucial for improving outcomes in spinal cord and brain injuries.