Biodegradable Bisvinyl Sulfonemethyl-crosslinked Gelatin Conduit Promotes Regeneration after Peripheral Nerve Injury in Adult Rats

Scientific Reports, 2017 · DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17792-2 · Published: December 15, 2017

Regenerative Medicine Neurology Biomedical

Simple Explanation

The nervous system controls bodily functions, and nerve damage can severely impact quality of life. Peripheral nerve damage is especially challenging to repair, often requiring grafts. Autologous nerve grafts, while effective, have limitations such as donor site damage. Allografts pose immunogenic problems. Researchers are exploring biocompatible nerve conduits to stimulate nerve recovery. This study develops a bisvinyl sulfonemethyl (BVSM)-crosslinked gelatin conduit for peripheral nerve repair. The conduit's mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and ability to support axonal regeneration were evaluated.

Study Duration

8 weeks

Participants

30 adult male SD rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The gelatin-BVSM conduits exhibited suitable mechanical strength, were hydrophilic, and non-cytotoxic to Schwann cells.
2
The gelatin-BVSM conduits supported nerve regeneration, with the number of fluorogold-labelled cells and histological analysis similar to silicone rubber conduits after 8 weeks.
3
Electrophysiological analysis showed improved nerve functions, including NCV and latency, in the gelatin-BVSM group compared to the silicone rubber group after 8 weeks.

Research Summary

This study introduces a novel biodegradable gelatin-BVSM conduit for peripheral nerve repair, addressing limitations of autologous and allogenic nerve grafts. The gelatin-BVSM conduit demonstrates promising mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and the ability to support axonal regeneration, comparable to clinically used silicone rubber conduits. In vivo results suggest that gelatin-BVSM conduits can promote nerve tissue regeneration and functional restoration, making them a potential alternative for nerve repair.

Practical Implications

Potential Alternative to Autografts

The gelatin-BVSM conduit offers a potential alternative to autologous nerve grafts, reducing donor site morbidity and addressing the shortage of donated nerves.

Improved Nerve Regeneration

The conduit's biocompatibility and ability to promote axonal regeneration can lead to improved outcomes in peripheral nerve repair.

Clinical Translation

The promising results warrant further investigation and clinical trials to assess the efficacy of gelatin-BVSM conduits in human peripheral nerve injuries.

Study Limitations

1
The study was performed on rats, and results may not directly translate to humans.
2
The long-term effects of the gelatin-BVSM conduit on nerve regeneration were not assessed.
3
Muscle atrophy remained a serious problem even after the muscle fibers had been reinnervated.

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