Neurotrophin releasing single and multiple lumen nerve conduits

J Control Release, 2005 · DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2005.02.022 · Published: June 2, 2005

Pharmacology Regenerative Medicine Biomedical

Simple Explanation

The study focuses on creating nerve conduits, which are like tiny tubes, with single or multiple inner channels. These conduits are designed to release neurotrophic factors, substances that help nerve cells grow and survive. These conduits are made from a mix of polymer microspheres and a porogen (like salt), processed using gas foaming. The amount of porogen affects the conduit's porosity and strength. The neurotrophic factor, NGF, is added either by mixing it with the polymer or encapsulating it within microspheres before gas foaming. The conduits release NGF over at least 42 days, with the release rate controlled by how the NGF was incorporated and the type of polymer used. The released NGF remains active and can stimulate nerve growth. Animal studies show that the conduits maintain their structure and allow cells to enter the channels.

Study Duration

42 days

Participants

Male CD-1 mice

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The porosity and mechanical properties of the constructs were regulated by the ratio of porogen to polymer microsphere.
2
A sustained release was observed for at least 42 days, with the release rate controlled by method of incorporation and polymer molecular weight.
3
Polymer conduits with controllable lumen diameters and protein release may enhance nerve regeneration by guiding and stimulating neurite outgrowth.

Research Summary

This report, single lumen and multiple lumen conduits capable of controlled, sustained release of neurotrophic factors were fabricated, and have potential application in nerve regeneration. These conduits have sufficient mechanical properties, controlled by porogen content, to maintain open channels that allow for tissue ingrowth in vivo. Protein delivery from the conduit is regulated by the mechanism of incorporation (encapsulated versus mixed), the polymer molecular weight, and the presence of porogen.

Practical Implications

Nerve Regeneration

The fabricated conduits can be used as guidance channels for nerve regeneration after injury, providing structural support and promoting neurite outgrowth.

Controlled Drug Delivery

The controlled release of neurotrophic factors, such as NGF, can enhance neuronal survival and stimulate neurite outgrowth, improving nerve regeneration outcomes.

Customizable Conduits

The ability to control the porosity, mechanical properties, and release rate of the conduits allows for customization based on the specific needs of the nerve injury and the desired therapeutic effect.

Study Limitations

1
In vivo studies were limited to subcutaneous implantation and did not directly assess nerve regeneration in a nerve injury model.
2
The study primarily focused on NGF as the neurotrophic factor, and further research is needed to evaluate the delivery of other factors.
3
The long-term stability and degradation of the conduits in vivo were not thoroughly investigated.

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