CD31(+) cell transplantation promotes recovery from peripheral neuropathy

Recently, we reported that human peripheral blood (PB)-derived CD31(+) cells are highly angiogenic. In this study, we investigated the beneficial effects of CD31(+) cells on peripheral neuropathy in mice. CD31(+) cells were collected from the peripheral blood using magnetic activated cell sorting. CD31(+) cells exhibited higher levels of expression of angiogenic genes on real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Peripheral neuropathy was induced by crushing the sciatic nerve with a hemostat, and CD31(+) cells were then injected intramuscularly along the sciatic nerve. CD31(+) cell transplantation restored motor nerve conduction velocity and voltage amplitude and improved motor coordination. In addition, CD31(+) cell transplantation significantly improved blood perfusion and increased intraneural vascularity in the sciatic nerve. Whole-mount fluorescent imaging and dot blot analysis showed that CD31(+) cells in the nerve possessed high engraftment and anti-apoptotic properties. Additionally, injected CD31(+) cells displayed neurovascular tropism and are highly incorporated with vasculature. Angiogenic cytokines were augmented in CD31(+)-injected nerve tissue, suggesting increased neovascularization. Taken together, these results indicate that CD31(+) cells might be a novel therapeutic strategy in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy.