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Materials for peripheral nerve repair constructs: Natural proteins or synthetic polymers?
Holly Gregory1, James B Phillips1
1Department of Pharmacology, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1N 1AX, UK; UCL Centre for Nerve Engineering, University College London, London, UK.
Neurochemistry International
|January 3, 2021
Summary
Biomaterial constructs show promise for peripheral nerve repair. Both natural proteins and synthetic polymers, often combined with cell therapy, demonstrate successful in vivo outcomes for nerve regeneration and functional recovery.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Severe peripheral nerve injuries present a significant clinical challenge.
- Biomaterial constructs are being developed to enhance nerve regeneration and functional recovery.
- Current research emphasizes sophisticated construct designs and regenerative agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on biomaterial constructs for peripheral nerve repair.
- To focus on natural proteins (collagen, chitosan, silk) and synthetic polymers (PCL, PLGA, PGA).
- To investigate the role of cell therapy in nerve repair constructs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of in vivo studies published between 2015-2020.
- Focus on six selected biomaterials: collagen, chitosan, silk, PCL, PLGA, and PGA.
- Analysis of construct design, regenerative agents, and cell therapy applications.
Main Results:
- Natural proteins and synthetic polymers are equally popular in nerve repair research.
- Both material types show comparable success rates in vivo.
- Cell therapy is frequently used with these constructs, showing potential for longer nerve gaps.
Conclusions:
- Biomaterial constructs, utilizing both natural and synthetic polymers, are effective for peripheral nerve repair.
- Cell therapy integrated with biomaterial constructs holds significant potential for improving functional recovery, especially in cases of longer nerve gaps.
