Graphene oxide scaffolds promote functional improvements mediated by scaffold-invading axons in thoracic transected rats

This study investigates the use of graphene oxide scaffolds to promote nerve regeneration and functional recovery in rats with complete spinal cord injuries. Graphene, a material known to interact well with neural cells, was used to create a supportive structure for nerve growth at the injury site. The researchers found that the scaffolds allowed axons (nerve fibers) to grow through the injury site and establish connections, particularly from brainstem regions related to motor function. These connections were shown to be functional through electrophysiological recordings. Additionally, rats with the scaffolds showed improved postural control and trunk stability compared to those without, indicating a positive impact on overall body mechanics. This suggests that graphene oxide scaffolds can help to promote nerve regeneration and functional recovery after spinal cord injury.

• 1
  rGO scaffolds create a permissive environment that allows the invasion of functional axonic processes from neurons located in brainstem nuclei with motor function in a rat model of complete thoracic transection.
• 2
  Electrophysiological recordings from brainstem regions show antidromic activation of a small population of neurons in response to electrical stimulation caudal to the injury, specifically located in the Gigantocellular nucleus and vestibular nuclei.
• 3
  Behavioral tests evidence that these scaffolds play an important role in whole-body mechanical stabilization (postural control) proved by the absence of scoliosis, a higher trunk stability and a larger cervico-thoraco-lumbar movement range in rGO-implanted rats.