Basic fibroblast growth factor promotes nerve regeneration in a C- -ion-implanted silicon chamber

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Neuroscience
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Peripheral nerve injuries pose significant challenges to recovery.
• Previous research demonstrated silicone tubes with negatively charged carbon ions (C-) facilitate nerve regeneration across gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of C- ion-implanted tubes pretreated with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) for peripheral nerve regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Utilized silicone tubes with inner surfaces implanted with C- ions.
• Pretreated the C- ion-implanted tubes with bFGF.
• Assessed nerve regeneration across a 15-mm inter-stump gap.

Main Results:

• The C- ion-implanted tube significantly accelerated peripheral nerve regeneration.
• Pretreatment with bFGF further enhanced the nerve regeneration observed with the C- ion-implanted tube.

Conclusions:

• C- ion-implanted tubes represent a promising strategy for peripheral nerve regeneration.
• Combining C- ion implantation with bFGF offers a synergistic approach to enhance nerve repair outcomes.