Peripheral nerve repair: innovations and future directions.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) cause significant disability due to limited functional recovery.
• Current treatments like microsurgery have inconsistent outcomes, especially for severe injuries.
• There's a critical need for advanced strategies to overcome barriers to nerve regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review contemporary research in peripheral nerve injury (PNI) treatment.
• To highlight advancements in structural, biological, and physical stimulation approaches.
• To discuss challenges and future directions for clinical translation.

Main Methods:

• Review of research in four key domains: structural reconstruction, biological acceleration, functional remodeling, and anatomical restoration.
• Exploration of advanced nerve-guidance conduits and biological therapies (stem cells, exosomes).
• Analysis of non-invasive biophysical stimulation modalities and multi-omics technologies.

Main Results:

• Advanced conduits and cell-free biologics enhance nerve regeneration.
• Biophysical stimulation promotes axonal growth and neurotrophic signaling.
• Integrated strategies show synergistic effects in preclinical models.

Conclusions:

• Progress in biomaterials, cell-free biologics, and biophysical stimulation offers alternatives to conventional PNI repair.
• Development requires reliable biomarkers, standardized methods, and robust clinical trials.
• Collaborative efforts are essential for effective neuroregenerative therapies.