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Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Regulating Schwann Cell Growth by Nanosecond Pulsed Electric Field for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration In Vitro
Published on: May 3, 2024
Differentially promoted peripheral nerve regeneration by grafted Schwann cells over-expressing different FGF-2
Kirsten Haastert1, Esther Lipokatic, Martin Fischer
1Department of Neuroanatomy, Hannover Medical School, OE 4140, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, 30625 Hannover, Germany. Haastert.kirsten@mh-hannover.de
Abstract:
Artificial nerve grafts are needed to reconstruct massive defects in the peripheral nervous system when autologous nerve grafts are not available in sufficient amounts. Nerve grafts containing Schwann cells display a suitable substrate for long-distance regeneration. We present here a comprehensive analysis of the in vivo effects of different isoforms of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) on peripheral nerve regeneration across long gaps. FGF-2 isoforms were provided by grafted, genetically modified Schwann cells over-expressing 18-kDa-FGF-2 and 21-/23-kDa-FGF-2, respectively. Functional tests evaluated motor and sensory recovery. Additionally, morphometrical analyses of regenerated nerves were performed 3 and 6 months after grafting. Distinct regeneration promoting effects of the different FGF-2 isoforms were found. 18-kDa-FGF-2 mediated inhibitory effects on the grade of myelination of regenerating axons, whereas 21-/23-kDa-FGF-2 mediated early recovery of sensory functions and stimulation of long-distance myelination of regenerating axons. The results contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies in peripheral nerve repair.

