Numerical characterization of regenerative axons growing along a spherical multifunctional scaffold after spinal cord injury

PLoS ONE, 2018 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0205961 · Published: October 26, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study proposes a mathematical model and computer simulation to characterize regenerative axons growing along a scaffold following SCI. The model assumes a solid, spherical, multifunctional, biomaterial scaffold that bridges the spinal cord gap in rats. The study investigates the effects of scaffold coating strength, seeding location and density, and scaffold ramp slope on axonal regeneration.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Rat model

Evidence Level

Mathematical model and computer simulation

Key Findings

1
A slimmer scaffold with a small on-ramp slope improves the success rate of axonal regeneration.
2
Increased seeding densities of complexes and chemoattractants improve both success and growth rates.
3
An over-eutrophic scaffold surface can harm axonal regeneration.

Research Summary

This study presents a mathematical model characterizing regenerative axons growing along a multifunctional scaffold after spinal cord injury (SCI). The model focuses on the effects of scaffold architecture and biochemical modifications on axonal regeneration, using numerical simulations to provide a quantitative interconnection between axonal regeneration and the biophysical properties. The simulation results suggest that a slimmer scaffold with a small on-ramp slope benefits axonal regeneration, but an over-eutrophic scaffold surface can be detrimental.

Practical Implications

Scaffold Design

The study suggests that a slim scaffold design with a gradual on-ramp slope is beneficial for promoting axonal regeneration after SCI.

Seeding Strategies

Optimizing the seeding densities of complexes and chemoattractants on the scaffold can improve both the success and growth rates of regenerating axons.

Surface Properties

Care should be taken to avoid creating an over-eutrophic scaffold surface, as this can hinder axonal regeneration.

Study Limitations

1
Theoretical predictions are yet to be validated directly by experiments
2
The basis data used for the calculation of growth cone velocity were not derived from trauma tissue
3
The cut to generate a spinal cord injury should not be too wide (>1 cm)

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