Differential effects of various electrical parameters on peripheral and central nerve regeneration

Optimal factors for small DC current electrical stimulation for nerve regeneration were studied. These studies are consistent with previous data and values expected for a return of function following Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) damage. This work represents the first detailed investigation of a dose response in the PNS using applied electric fields. As such, using the stimulator design described herein, we have found that a delivery of 1.4 microA DC (about 8mV/cm field strength) to a nerve cuff will result in a more rapid increase of axon numbers in the distal slump with no detectable adverse influence of chronic delivery of current. Since it appears as though the regenerative capacity in the PNS and CNS is related to increased blood flow brought upon by the electric field, then it is important to consider this result in the final analysis of the mechanism of electric field induced nerve regeneration. Studies aimed at describing the mechanisms by which such regeneration occurs are now underway.