Nerve regeneration

The regeneration of nerve is a brilliant example of plasticity within the nervous system. Axonal sprouts form within a few hours of nerve injury and grow vigorously over long distances. Nonetheless, recovery from nerve injury, such as that seen after laceration of distal motor-sensory nerve, is often incomplete. A variety of approaches to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration are currently being pursued. They include the use of electric fields, treatment with neurotrophic factors and Schwann cell manipulation.