Fibroblast growth factor 21 facilitates peripheral nerve regeneration through suppressing oxidative damage and...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Regenerative Medicine
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) necessitates effective treatments for axonal regrowth.
• Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a metabolic regulator, has unexplored therapeutic potential in nerve regeneration.
• Understanding FGF21's molecular mechanisms in PNI is crucial for developing new therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of exogenous FGF21 in promoting functional and morphological recovery after PNI.
• To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of FGF21's protective effects on nerve regeneration.
• To assess FGF21's impact on oxidative stress, Schwann cell proliferation, and autophagy.

Main Methods:

• Established a rat model of sciatic crush injury.
• Administered exogenous FGF21 locally to assess its effects on nerve recovery.
• Analyzed motor and sensory function, axonal remyelination, and Schwann cell proliferation.
• Investigated the roles of oxidative stress, Nrf-2, ERK signaling, and autophagy in FGF21's mechanism of action.

Main Results:

• FGF21 administration significantly improved functional and morphological recovery in sciatic nerve injury.
• FGF21 treatment reduced oxidative stress by activating Nrf-2 and ERK phosphorylation.
• FGF21 suppressed autophagic cell death in Schwann cells, promoting nerve regeneration.

Conclusions:

• FGF21 promotes nerve regeneration and remyelination after PNI by inhibiting oxidative stress and autophagy-induced cell death.
• The therapeutic effects of FGF21 involve the ERK/Nrf-2 signaling pathway.
• FGF21 represents a promising therapeutic candidate for treating peripheral nerve injuries.