Gastrodin modified polyurethane conduit promotes nerve repair via optimizing Schwann cells function
Hongcai Yang1, Qing Li2, Limei Li2
1Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China.
Bioactive Materials
|September 20, 2021
Summary
Polyurethane nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) modified with 5% Gastrodin significantly enhanced peripheral nerve regeneration and functional recovery in a 10mm sciatic nerve defect model. This biomaterial promoted Schwann cell activity and reduced inflammation, outperforming controls and showing autograft-like repair potential.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Neuroscience
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Peripheral nerve regeneration is a significant clinical challenge.
- Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) can aid regeneration by modulating the microenvironment.
- Gastrodin exhibits neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and pro-regenerative properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate polyurethane (PU) NGCs modified with varying concentrations of Gastrodin for peripheral nerve repair.
- To investigate the effects of Gastrodin-modified NGCs on Schwann cell behavior, neurotrophic factor expression, and inflammatory response.
- To assess the in vivo efficacy of these NGCs in promoting sciatic nerve regeneration and functional recovery.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of PU NGCs with 0, 1, and 5 wt% Gastrodin for controlled drug release.
- In vitro assessment of scaffold properties, Schwann cell proliferation, migration, and PC12 cell differentiation.
- In vivo implantation in a 10mm rat sciatic nerve defect model to evaluate nerve regeneration, vascularization, myelination, and functional recovery.
- Analysis of inflammatory markers (TNF-α, iNOS) and fibrous capsule formation.
Main Results:
- The 5% Gastrodin/PU NGC exhibited suitable pore structure and biocompatibility in vitro.
- Gastrodin-modified NGCs, particularly 5% Gastrodin/PU, significantly enhanced Schwann cell proliferation, migration, and myelination.
- The 5% Gastrodin/PU NGC demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects by reducing TNF-α and iNOS expression.
- In vivo, the 5% Gastrodin/PU NGC promoted significant nerve regeneration, vascularization, and functional recovery, comparable to autografts.
Conclusions:
- Polyurethane nerve guidance conduits modified with 5% Gastrodin effectively promote peripheral nerve regeneration and functional recovery.
- The enhanced efficacy is attributed to improved Schwann cell activity, neurotrophic support, and reduced inflammation.
- Gastrodin-modified NGCs represent a promising biomaterial for peripheral nerve repair applications.
