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In Situ-Sprayed Bioinspired Adhesive Conductive Hydrogels for Cavernous Nerve Repair
Shuting Wang1,2, Zhenqing Wang3, Wei Yang1
1National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|February 8, 2024
Summary
A new sprayable conductive hydrogel (GACM) effectively repairs cavernous nerve injury (CNI) and restores erectile function (ED). This minimally invasive treatment offers a promising solution for nerve regeneration and improved quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Cavernous nerve injury (CNI) leads to erectile dysfunction (ED), impacting men's quality of life.
- Conductive hydrogels show promise for large nerve repair, but challenges exist for small-diameter nerves like the cavernous nerve.
- Minimally invasive, anti-swelling, and immunomodulatory strategies are needed for effective CNI treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a sprayable, adhesive, conductive hydrogel (GACM) for minimally invasive cavernous nerve repair.
- To evaluate GACM's properties, including adhesion, anti-swelling, and immunomodulatory effects.
- To assess GACM's efficacy in promoting nerve regeneration and restoring erectile function in vivo.
Main Methods:
- GACM hydrogel synthesized using gelatin, adenine, carbon nanotubes, and mesaconate.
- In vitro assessment of hydrogel properties (adhesion, swelling, electrical conductivity).
- In vivo studies in animal models to evaluate nerve repair, erectile function, and fertility restoration, including robotic surgery feasibility.
Main Results:
- GACM demonstrated excellent adhesion and anti-swelling properties due to multiple hydrogen bonds.
- Mesaconate-loaded GACM inhibited inflammatory factors and promoted Schwann cell migration and proliferation.
- In vivo tests confirmed GACM's ability to repair cavernous nerves, restore erectile function and fertility.
- Feasibility of sprayable GACM in minimally invasive robotic surgery was validated in beagles.
Conclusions:
- Sprayable GACM hydrogel offers an effective and convenient solution for cavernous nerve repair.
- The material's properties support nerve regeneration and functional recovery.
- GACM presents a promising advanced material for minimally invasive treatments of nerve injuries, particularly ED.
