Multilevel analysis of the central–peripheral–target organ pathway: contributing to recovery after peripheral nerve injury

Peripheral nerve injury can cause changes throughout the nervous system, not just at the injury site. These changes affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and target organs like muscles. Current treatments often only address the local injury, limiting full recovery. The brain's ability to reorganize itself, called cortical plasticity, is altered after nerve damage. Changes also occur in the spinal cord, and target organs like muscles can weaken. Effective treatment needs to address all these levels. Combining traditional treatments with new methods that stimulate recovery at the brain, nerve, and target organ levels may lead to better results. This holistic approach could improve functional recovery for those with peripheral nerve injuries.

• 1
  Peripheral nerve injury induces a series of changes from the central nervous system to the peripheral nervous system and target organs, impacting cortical plasticity, spinal cord neurons, and muscle tissue.
• 2
  Schwann cells play a key role in promoting neuronal repair, providing metabolic support, and rebuilding neural circuits after nerve injury, contributing to motor and sensory function recovery.
• 3
  Inflammation after peripheral nerve injury can be both protective and detrimental; proper modulation is crucial to prevent secondary nerve injury and promote nerve regeneration.