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Sustained release of nerve growth factor from biodegradable polymer microspheres
P J Camarata1, R Suryanarayanan, D A Turner
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Neurosurgery
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Biodegradable polymer microspheres effectively deliver nerve growth factor (NGF) to improve survival of grafted tissues. This method offers sustained release for potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases and nerve regeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Grafted adrenal medullary tissue shows promise for parkinsonism treatment but requires enhanced long-term survival.
- Nerve growth factor (NGF) promotes survival and differentiation of grafted neural cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for sustained, site-specific delivery of NGF to grafted tissues.
- To fabricate and characterize biodegradable polymer microspheres for NGF delivery.
Main Methods:
- Poly(L-lactide)co-glycolide (70:30) microspheres were fabricated to encapsulate NGF.
- NGF release kinetics were assessed in vitro using neurite outgrowth assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.
- In vivo release was evaluated using immunohistochemical studies.
Main Results:
- Microspheres demonstrated sustained release of biologically active NGF for over 5 weeks in vitro and 4.5 weeks in vivo.
- Neurite outgrowth, indicative of NGF activity, was observed and could be blocked by anti-NGF antibodies.
- The microspheres provided a convenient method for prolonged, localized delivery of the growth factor.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable polymer microspheres are effective for the sustained delivery of NGF.
- This technology holds potential for improving graft survival in parkinsonism, treating experimental Alzheimer's disease, and promoting peripheral nerve regeneration.