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Sandhoff CA, Loewen A, Kuhn Y, Vidal HT, Ruetten S, Jockenhoevel S. The Challenge of E-Spinning Sub-Millimeter Tubular Scaffolds-A Design-of-Experiments Study for Fiber Yield Improvement. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1475. [PMID: 38891422 PMCID: PMC11174914 DOI: 10.3390/polym16111475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In tissue engineering, electrospinning has gained significant interest due to its highly porous structure with an excellent surface area to volume ratio and fiber diameters that can mimic the structure of the extracellular matrix. Bioactive substances such as growth factors and drugs are easily integrated. In many applications, there is an important need for small tubular structures (I.D. < 1 mm). However, fabricating sub-millimeter structures is challenging as it reduces the collector area and increases the disturbing factors, leading to significant fiber loss. This study aims to establish a reliable and reproducible electrospinning process for sub-millimeter tubular structures with minimized material loss. Influencing factors were analyzed, and disturbance factors were removed before optimizing control variables through the design-of-experiments method. Structural and morphological characterization was performed, including the yield, thickness, and fiber arrangement of the scaffold. We evaluated the electrospinning process to enhance the manufacturing efficiency and reduce material loss. The results indicated that adjusting the voltage settings and polarity significantly increased the fiber yield from 8% to 94%. Variations in the process parameters also affected the scaffold thickness and homogeneity. The results demonstrate the complex relationship between the process parameters and provide valuable insights for optimizing electrospinning, particularly for the cost-effective and reproducible production of small tubular diameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cilia A. Sandhoff
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstr. 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (C.A.S.); (A.L.); (Y.K.)
| | - Alexander Loewen
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstr. 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (C.A.S.); (A.L.); (Y.K.)
| | - Yasmin Kuhn
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstr. 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (C.A.S.); (A.L.); (Y.K.)
| | - Haude-Tukua Vidal
- Laboratoire de Physique et Mécanique Textiles (LPMT), École Nationale Supérieure d’Ingénieurs Sud-Alsace, 12 Rue des Frères Lumière, 68 093 Mulhouse, France
| | - Stephan Ruetten
- Electron Microscopy Facility, University Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Stefan Jockenhoevel
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstr. 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (C.A.S.); (A.L.); (Y.K.)
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM), Maastricht University, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
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2
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Mahmoudi N, Mohamed E, Dehnavi SS, Aguilar LMC, Harvey AR, Parish CL, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR. Calming the Nerves via the Immune Instructive Physiochemical Properties of Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogels. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303707. [PMID: 38030559 PMCID: PMC10837390 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Current therapies for the devastating damage caused by traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are limited. This is in part due to poor drug efficacy to modulate neuroinflammation, angiogenesis and/or promoting neuroprotection and is the combined result of challenges in getting drugs across the blood brain barrier, in a targeted approach. The negative impact of the injured extracellular matrix (ECM) has been identified as a factor in restricting post-injury plasticity of residual neurons and is shown to reduce the functional integration of grafted cells. Therefore, new strategies are needed to manipulate the extracellular environment at the subacute phase to enhance brain regeneration. In this review, potential strategies are to be discussed for the treatment of TBI by using self-assembling peptide (SAP) hydrogels, fabricated via the rational design of supramolecular peptide scaffolds, as an artificial ECM which under the appropriate conditions yields a supramolecular hydrogel. Sequence selection of the peptides allows the tuning of these hydrogels' physical and biochemical properties such as charge, hydrophobicity, cell adhesiveness, stiffness, factor presentation, degradation profile and responsiveness to (external) stimuli. This review aims to facilitate the development of more intelligent biomaterials in the future to satisfy the parameters, requirements, and opportunities for the effective treatment of TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Mahmoudi
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterialsthe John Curtin School of Medical ResearchAustralian National UniversityCanberraACT2601Australia
- ANU College of Engineering & Computer ScienceAustralian National UniversityCanberraACT2601Australia
- The Graeme Clark InstituteThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC3010Australia
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringFaculty of Engineering and Information TechnologyThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC3010Australia
| | - Elmira Mohamed
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterialsthe John Curtin School of Medical ResearchAustralian National UniversityCanberraACT2601Australia
| | - Shiva Soltani Dehnavi
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterialsthe John Curtin School of Medical ResearchAustralian National UniversityCanberraACT2601Australia
- ANU College of Engineering & Computer ScienceAustralian National UniversityCanberraACT2601Australia
| | - Lilith M. Caballero Aguilar
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterialsthe John Curtin School of Medical ResearchAustralian National UniversityCanberraACT2601Australia
- The Graeme Clark InstituteThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC3010Australia
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringFaculty of Engineering and Information TechnologyThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC3010Australia
| | - Alan R. Harvey
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australiaand Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational SciencePerthWA6009Australia
| | - Clare L. Parish
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental HealthThe University of MelbourneParkvilleMelbourneVIC3010Australia
| | | | - David R. Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterialsthe John Curtin School of Medical ResearchAustralian National UniversityCanberraACT2601Australia
- The Graeme Clark InstituteThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC3010Australia
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringFaculty of Engineering and Information TechnologyThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC3010Australia
- Melbourne Medical SchoolFaculty of MedicineDentistry and Health ScienceThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC3010Australia
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Gutiérrez B, González-Quijón ME, Martínez-Rodríguez P, Alarcón-Apablaza J, Godoy K, Cury DP, Lezcano MF, Vargas-Chávez D, Dias FJ. Comprehensive Development of a Cellulose Acetate and Soy Protein-Based Scaffold for Nerve Regeneration. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:216. [PMID: 38257015 PMCID: PMC10820324 DOI: 10.3390/polym16020216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The elaboration of biocompatible nerve guide conduits (NGCs) has been studied in recent years as a treatment for total nerve rupture lesions (axonotmesis). Different natural polymers have been used in these studies, including cellulose associated with soy protein. The purpose of this report was to describe manufacturing NGCs suitable for nerve regeneration using the method of dip coating and evaporation of solvent with cellulose acetate (CA) functionalized with soy protein acid hydrolysate (SPAH). METHODS The manufacturing method and bacterial control precautions for the CA/SPAH NGCs were described. The structure of the NGCs was analyzed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM); porosity was analyzed with a degassing method using a porosimeter. Schwann cell (SCL 4.1/F7) biocompatibility of cell-seeded nerve guide conduits was evaluated with the MTT assay. RESULTS The method employed allowed an easy elaboration and customization of NGCs, free of bacteria, with pores in the internal surface, and the uniform wall thickness allowed manipulation, which showed flexibility; additionally, the sample was suturable. The NGCs showed initial biocompatibility with Schwann cells, revealing cells adhered to the NGC structure after 5 days. CONCLUSIONS The fabricated CA/SPAH NGCs showed adequate features to be used for peripheral nerve regeneration studies. Future reports are necessary to discuss the ideal concentration of CA and SPAH and the mechanical and physicochemical properties of this biomaterial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Gutiérrez
- Master Program in Dental Sciences, Dental School, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
| | - María Eugenia González-Quijón
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
- Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
| | - Paulina Martínez-Rodríguez
- Oral Biology Research Centre (CIBO-UFRO), Dental School, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
| | - Josefa Alarcón-Apablaza
- Research Centre in Dental Sciences (CICO-UFRO), Dental School, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
- Doctoral Program in Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
| | - Karina Godoy
- Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
| | - Diego Pulzatto Cury
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade de São Paulo (ICB-USP), São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil;
- Department of Cellular Biology and the Development, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade de São Paulo (ICB-USP), São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - María Florencia Lezcano
- Departamento de Bioingeniería, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Entre Ríos, Oro Verde 3100, Argentina;
| | - Daniel Vargas-Chávez
- Doctoral Program in Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Mayor, Escuela Medicina Veterinaria, Temuco 4780000, Chile
| | - Fernando José Dias
- Oral Biology Research Centre (CIBO-UFRO), Dental School, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile;
- Department of Integral Adults Dentistry, Dental School, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile
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Xu H, Gao Z, Wang Z, Wu W, Li H, Liu Y, Jia S, Hao D, Zhu L. Electrospun PCL Nerve Conduit Filled with GelMA Gel for CNTF and IGF-1 Delivery in Promoting Sciatic Nerve Regeneration in Rat. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:6309-6321. [PMID: 37919884 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Neural tissue engineering is an essential strategy to repair long-segment peripheral nerve defects. Modification of the nerve conduit is an effective way to improve the local microenvironment of the injury site and facilitate nerve regeneration. However, the concurrent release of multiple growth cues that regulate the activity of Schwann cells and neurons remains a challenge. The present study involved the fabrication of a composite hydrogel, specifically methacrylate-anhydride gelatin-ciliary neurotrophic factor/insulin-like growth factor-1 (GelMA-CNTF/IGF-1), with the aim of providing a sustained release of CNTF and IGF-1. The GelMA-CNTF/IGF-1 hydrogels exhibited a swelling rate of 10.2% following a 24 h incubation in vitro. In vitro, GelMA hydrogels demonstrated a high degree of efficiency in the sustained release of CNTF and IGF-1 proteins, with a release rate of 85.9% for CNTF and 90.9% for IGF-1 shown at day 28. In addition, the GelMA-CNTF/IGF-1 composite hydrogel promoted the proliferation of Schwann cells and the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), fibronectin, and laminin and also considerably promoted the axonal growth of neurons. Furthermore, GelMA-CNTF/IGF-1 hydrogels were loaded into PCL electrospun nerve conduits to repair 15 mm sciatic nerve defects in rats. In vivo studies indicated that PCL-GelMA-CNTF/IGF-1 could efficiently accelerate the regeneration of the rat sciatic nerve, promote the formation of the myelin sheath of new axons, promote the electrophysiological function of regenerated nerves, and eventually improve the recovery of motor function in rats. Overall, the PCL-GelMA-CNTF/IGF-1 scaffold presents an attractive new approach for generating an optimal therapeutic alternative for peripheral nerve restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailiang Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Ziheng Gao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Zhiyuan Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Weidong Wu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Youjun Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Shuaijun Jia
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Dingjun Hao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710054, China
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Wu S, Shen W, Ge X, Ao F, Zheng Y, Wang Y, Jia X, Mao Y, Luo Y. Advances in Large Gap Peripheral Nerve Injury Repair and Regeneration with Bridging Nerve Guidance Conduits. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2300078. [PMID: 37235853 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury is a common complication of accidents and diseases. The traditional autologous nerve graft approach remains the gold standard for the treatment of nerve injuries. While sources of autologous nerve grafts are very limited and difficult to obtain. Nerve guidance conduits are widely used in the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries as an alternative to nerve autografts and allografts. However, the development of nerve conduits does not meet the needs of large gap peripheral nerve injury. Functional nerve conduits can provide a good microenvironment for axon elongation and myelin regeneration. Herein, the manufacturing methods and different design types of functional bridging nerve conduits for nerve conduits combined with electrical or magnetic stimulation and loaded with Schwann cells, etc., are summarized. It summarizes the literature and finds that the technical solutions of functional nerve conduits with electrical stimulation, magnetic stimulation and nerve conduits combined with Schwann cells can be used as effective strategies for bridging large gap nerve injury and provide an effective way for the study of large gap nerve injury repair. In addition, functional nerve conduits provide a new way to construct delivery systems for drugs and growth factors in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wu
- School of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, P. R. China
| | - Wen Shen
- School of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, P. R. China
| | - Xuemei Ge
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, P. R. China
| | - Fen Ao
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zheng
- School of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, P. R. China
| | - Yigang Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, No. 215 Hospital of Shaanxi Nuclear Industry, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712000, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoni Jia
- Central Laboratory, Xi'an Mental Health Center, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Yueyang Mao
- School of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, P. R. China
| | - Yali Luo
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, P. R. China
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Liu Y, Zhang X, Xiao C, Liu B. Engineered hydrogels for peripheral nerve repair. Mater Today Bio 2023; 20:100668. [PMID: 37273791 PMCID: PMC10232914 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is a complex disease that often appears in young adults. It is characterized by a high incidence, limited treatment options, and poor clinical outcomes. This disease not only causes dysfunction and psychological disorders in patients but also brings a heavy burden to the society. Currently, autologous nerve grafting is the gold standard in clinical treatment, but complications, such as the limited source of donor tissue and scar tissue formation, often further limit the therapeutic effect. Recently, a growing number of studies have used tissue-engineered materials to create a natural microenvironment similar to the nervous system and thus promote the regeneration of neural tissue and the recovery of impaired neural function with promising results. Hydrogels are often used as materials for the culture and differentiation of neurogenic cells due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Hydrogels can provide three-dimensional hydration networks that can be integrated into a variety of sizes and shapes to suit the morphology of neural tissues. In this review, we discuss the recent advances of engineered hydrogels for peripheral nerve repair and analyze the role of several different therapeutic strategies of hydrogels in PNI through the application characteristics of hydrogels in nerve tissue engineering (NTE). Furthermore, the prospects and challenges of the application of hydrogels in the treatment of PNI are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Liu
- Hand and Foot Surgery Department, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130061, PR China
| | - Xiaonong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, PR China
| | - Chunsheng Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, PR China
| | - Bin Liu
- Hand and Foot Surgery Department, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130061, PR China
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7
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Stocco E, Barbon S, Emmi A, Tiengo C, Macchi V, De Caro R, Porzionato A. Bridging Gaps in Peripheral Nerves: From Current Strategies to Future Perspectives in Conduit Design. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119170. [PMID: 37298122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) with substance loss, where tensionless end-to-end suture is not achievable, the positioning of a graft is required. Available options include autografts (e.g., sural nerve, medial and lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerves, superficial branch of the radial nerve), allografts (Avance®; human origin), and hollow nerve conduits. There are eleven commercial hollow conduits approved for clinical, and they consist of devices made of a non-biodegradable synthetic polymer (polyvinyl alcohol), biodegradable synthetic polymers (poly(DL-lactide-ε-caprolactone); polyglycolic acid), and biodegradable natural polymers (collagen type I with/without glycosaminoglycan; chitosan; porcine small intestinal submucosa); different resorption times are available for resorbable guides, ranging from three months to four years. Unfortunately, anatomical/functional nerve regeneration requirements are not satisfied by any of the possible alternatives; to date, focusing on wall and/or inner lumen organization/functionalization seems to be the most promising strategy for next-generation device fabrication. Porous or grooved walls as well as multichannel lumens and luminal fillers are the most intriguing options, eventually also including the addition of cells (Schwann cells, bone marrow-derived, and adipose tissue derived stem cells) to support nerve regeneration. This review aims to describe common alternatives for severe PNI recovery with a highlight of future conduits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Stocco
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padova University Hospital, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 Padova, Italy
- L.i.f.e.L.a.b. Program, Consorzio per la Ricerca Sanitaria (CORIS), Veneto Region, 35128 Padova, Italy
- Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling-TES, Onlus, 35030 Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Barbon
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
- L.i.f.e.L.a.b. Program, Consorzio per la Ricerca Sanitaria (CORIS), Veneto Region, 35128 Padova, Italy
- Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling-TES, Onlus, 35030 Padova, Italy
| | - Aron Emmi
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Cesare Tiengo
- Plastic Surgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Veronica Macchi
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
- L.i.f.e.L.a.b. Program, Consorzio per la Ricerca Sanitaria (CORIS), Veneto Region, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Raffaele De Caro
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
- L.i.f.e.L.a.b. Program, Consorzio per la Ricerca Sanitaria (CORIS), Veneto Region, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Porzionato
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
- L.i.f.e.L.a.b. Program, Consorzio per la Ricerca Sanitaria (CORIS), Veneto Region, 35128 Padova, Italy
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8
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Dong Q, Yang X, Liang X, Liu J, Wang B, Zhao Y, Huselstein C, Feng X, Tong Z, Chen Y. Composite Hydrogel Conduit Incorporated with Platelet-Rich Plasma Improved the Regenerative Microenvironment for Peripheral Nerve Repair. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:24120-24133. [PMID: 37162458 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c02548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve regeneration and functional recovery remain major challenges in clinical practice. Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) which can regulate the regenerative microenvironment are beneficial for peripheral nerve repair. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can secrete multiple growth factors to regulate the regenerative microenvironment. However, current administration methods of PRP are rapidly activated followed by the burst release of growth factors, causing low therapeutic efficiency in vivo. To overcome these disadvantages, a composite nerve conduit was fabricated by incorporating PRP into a gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) and sodium alginate (SA) hydrogel. The GelMA/SA-3/PRP-20 NGCs possess optimal mechanical properties, degradation rate, and superior biological performance. Importantly, GelMA/SA-3/PRP-20 NGCs achieved the sustained release of two major growth factors (VEGF-A, PDGF-BB) from PRP. Moreover, the GelMA/SA-3/PRP-20 NGCs significantly promoted the migration of Schwann cells and the neovascularization of endothelial cells in vitro. While bridging 10 mm rat sciatic nerve defects, the GelMA/SA-3/PRP-20 NGCs promoted axonal regeneration and functional recovery of peripheral nerves. Therefore, the GelMA/SA-3/PRP-20 NGCs could regulate the regenerative microenvironment by sustained release of growth factors from PRP and shed new light on the clinical application of PRP in peripheral nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Dong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immune Related Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xindi Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immune Related Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immune Related Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immune Related Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Binyi Wang
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yanteng Zhao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Céline Huselstein
- UMR 7365 CNRS, Medical School, University of Lorraine, 54505 Nancy, France
| | | | - Zan Tong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immune Related Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yun Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immune Related Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
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9
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Huang X, An Y, Yuan S, Chen C, Shan H, Zhang M. Silk fibroin carriers with sustained release capacity for treating neurological diseases. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1117542. [PMID: 37214477 PMCID: PMC10196044 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1117542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological diseases such as traumatic brain injury, cerebral ischemia, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease usually occur in the central and peripheral nervous system and result in nervous dysfunction, such as cognitive impairment and motor dysfunction. Long-term clinical intervention is necessary for neurological diseases where neural stem cell transplantation has made substantial progress. However, many risks remain for cell therapy, such as puncture bleeding, postoperative infection, low transplantation success rate, and tumor formation. Sustained drug delivery, which aims to maintain the desired steady-state drug concentrations in plasma or local injection sites, is considered as a feasible option to help overcome side effects and improve the therapeutic efficiency of drugs on neurological diseases. Natural polymers such as silk fibroin have excellent biocompatibility, which can be prepared for various end-use material formats, such as microsphere, gel, coating/film, scaffold/conduit, microneedle, and enables the dynamic release of loaded drugs to achieve a desired therapeutic response. Sustained-release drug delivery systems are based on the mechanism of diffusion and degradation by altering the structures of silk fibroin and drugs, factors, and cells, which can induce nerve recovery and restore the function of the nervous system in a slow and persistent manner. Based on these desirable properties of silk fibroin as a carrier with sustained-release capacity, this paper discusses the role of various forms of silk fibroin-based drug delivery materials in treating neurological diseases in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinqi Huang
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yumei An
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shengye Yuan
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongtai People’s Hospital, Dongtai, China
| | - Haiyan Shan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mingyang Zhang
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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10
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Lischer M, di Summa PG, Petrou IG, Schaefer DJ, Guzman R, Kalbermatten DF, Madduri S. Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Nerve Tissue Engineering: Bridging Nerve Gap Injuries in Large Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097800. [PMID: 37175506 PMCID: PMC10177884 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-therapy-based nerve repair strategies hold great promise. In the field, there is an extensive amount of evidence for better regenerative outcomes when using tissue-engineered nerve grafts for bridging severe gap injuries. Although a massive number of studies have been performed using rodents, only a limited number involving nerve injury models of large animals were reported. Nerve injury models mirroring the human nerve size and injury complexity are crucial to direct the further clinical development of advanced therapeutic interventions. Thus, there is a great need for the advancement of research using large animals, which will closely reflect human nerve repair outcomes. Within this context, this review highlights various stem cell-based nerve repair strategies involving large animal models such as pigs, rabbits, dogs, and monkeys, with an emphasis on the limitations and strengths of therapeutic strategy and outcome measurements. Finally, future directions in the field of nerve repair are discussed. Thus, the present review provides valuable knowledge, as well as the current state of information and insights into nerve repair strategies using cell therapies in large animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Lischer
- Center for Bioengineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Pietro G di Summa
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Lausanne and University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ilias G Petrou
- Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dirk J Schaefer
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Guzman
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel F Kalbermatten
- Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Srinivas Madduri
- Center for Bioengineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
- Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Bioengineering and Neuroregeneration, Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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11
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Sharma A, Behl T, Sharma L, Shah OP, Yadav S, Sachdeva M, Rashid S, Bungau SG, Bustea C. Exploring the molecular pathways and therapeutic implications of angiogenesis in neuropathic pain. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114693. [PMID: 37062217 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, much attention has been paid to chronic neuro-inflammatory condition underlying neuropathic pain. It is generally linked with thermal hyperalgesia and tactile allodynia. It results due to injury or infection in the nervous system. The neuropathic pain spectrum covers a variety of pathophysiological states, mostly involved are ischemic injury viral infections associated neuropathies, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathies, autoimmune disorders, traumatic origin, hereditary neuropathies, inflammatory disorders, and channelopathies. In CNS, angiogenesis is evident in inflammation of neurons and pain in bone cancer. The role of chemokines and cytokines is dualistic; their aggressive secretion produces detrimental effects, leading to neuropathic pain. However, whether the angiogenesis contributes and exists in neuropathic pain remains doubtful. In the present review, we elucidated summary of diverse mechanisms of neuropathic pain associated with angiogenesis. Moreover, an overview of multiple targets that have provided insights on the VEGF signaling, signaling through Tie-1 and Tie-2 receptor, erythropoietin pathway promoting axonal growth are also discussed. Because angiogenesis as a result of these signaling, results in inflammation, we focused on the mechanisms of neuropathic pain. These factors are mainly responsible for the activation of post-traumatic regeneration of the PNS and CNS. Furthermore, we also reviewed synthetic and herbal treatments targeting angiogenesis in neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan 173211, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Bidholi, 248007 Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Lalit Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan 173211, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Om Prakash Shah
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan 173211, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Shivam Yadav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chhatrapati Shahu ji Maharaj University, Kanpur 208024, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Monika Sachdeva
- Fatima College of Health Sciences, Al Ain 00000, United Arab Emirates
| | - Summya Rashid
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Simona Gabriela Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea 410028, Romania; Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, Oradea 410028, Romania.
| | - Cristiana Bustea
- Department of Preclinical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea 410073, Romania
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12
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Laranjeira S, Roberton VH, Phillips JB, Shipley RJ. Perspectives on optimizing local delivery of drugs to peripheral nerves using mathematical models. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1593. [PMID: 36624330 PMCID: PMC10909486 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Drug therapies for treating peripheral nerve injury repair have shown significant promise in preclinical studies. Despite this, drug treatments are not used routinely clinically to treat patients with peripheral nerve injuries. Drugs delivered systemically are often associated with adverse effects to other tissues and organs; it remains challenging to predict the effective concentration needed at an injured nerve and the appropriate delivery strategy. Local drug delivery approaches are being developed to mitigate this, for example via injections or biomaterial-mediated release. We propose the integration of mathematical modeling into the development of local drug delivery protocols for peripheral nerve injury repair. Mathematical models have the potential to inform understanding of the different transport mechanisms at play, as well as quantitative predictions around the efficacy of individual local delivery protocols. We discuss existing approaches in the literature, including drawing from other research fields, and present a process for taking forward an integrated mathematical-experimental approach to accelerate local drug delivery approaches for peripheral nerve injury repair. This article is categorized under: Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Neurological Diseases > Computational Models Neurological Diseases > Biomedical Engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simao Laranjeira
- UCL Mechanical EngineeringUCL Centre for Nerve EngineeringLondonLondonUK
| | | | - James B. Phillips
- UCL School of PharmacyUCL Centre for Nerve EngineeringLondonLondonUK
| | - Rebecca J. Shipley
- UCL Mechanical EngineeringUCL Centre for Nerve EngineeringLondonLondonUK
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13
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Bianchini M, Micera S, Redolfi Riva E. Recent Advances in Polymeric Drug Delivery Systems for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020640. [PMID: 36839962 PMCID: PMC9965241 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
When a traumatic event causes complete denervation, muscle functional recovery is highly compromised. A possible solution to this issue is the implantation of a biodegradable polymeric tubular scaffold, providing a biomimetic environment to support the nerve regeneration process. However, in the case of consistent peripheral nerve damage, the regeneration capabilities are poor. Hence, a crucial challenge in this field is the development of biodegradable micro- nanostructured polymeric carriers for controlled and sustained release of molecules to enhance nerve regeneration. The aim of these systems is to favor the cellular processes that support nerve regeneration to increase the functional recovery outcome. Drug delivery systems (DDSs) are interesting solutions in the nerve regeneration framework, due to the possibility of specifically targeting the active principle within the site of interest, maximizing its therapeutical efficacy. The scope of this review is to highlight the recent advances regarding the study of biodegradable polymeric DDS for nerve regeneration and to discuss their potential to enhance regenerative performance in those clinical scenarios characterized by severe nerve damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bianchini
- The BioRobotics Institute, Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvestro Micera
- The BioRobotics Institute, Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
- Translational Neuroengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1000 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eugenio Redolfi Riva
- The BioRobotics Institute, Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence:
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14
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Oliverio R, Patenaude V, Liberelle B, Virgilio N, Banquy X, De Crescenzo G. Macroporous dextran hydrogels for controlled growth factor capture and delivery using coiled-coil interactions. Acta Biomater 2022; 153:190-203. [PMID: 36113720 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Macroporous hydrogels possess a vast potential for various applications in the biomedical field. However, due to their large pore size allowing for unrestricted diffusion in the macropore network, macroporous hydrogels alone are not able to efficiently capture and release biomolecules in a controlled manner. There is thus a need for biofunctionalized, affinity-based gels that can efficiently load and release biomolecules in a sustained and controlled manner. For this purpose, we report here the use of a E/K coiled-coil affinity pair for the controlled capture and delivery of growth factors from highly interconnected, macroporous dextran hydrogels. By conjugating the Kcoil peptide to the dextran backbone, we achieved controlled loading and release of Ecoil-tagged Epidermal and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors. To finely tune the behavior of the gels, we propose four control parameters: (i) macropore size, (ii) Kcoil grafting density, (iii) Ecoil valency and (iv) E/K affinity. We demonstrate that Kcoil grafting can produce a 20-fold increase in passive growth factor capture by macroporous dextran gels. Furthermore, we demonstrate that our gels can release as little as 20% of the loaded growth factors over one week, while retaining bioactivity. Altogether, we propose a versatile, highly tunable platform for the controlled delivery of growth factors in biomedical applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This work presents a highly tunable platform for growth factor capture and sustained delivery using affinity peptides in macroporous, fully interconnected dextran hydrogels. It addresses several ongoing challenges by presenting: (i) a versatile platform for the delivery of a wide range of stable, bioactive molecules, (ii) a passive, affinity-based loading of growth factors in the platform, paving the way for in situ (re)loading of the device and (iii) four different control parameters to finely tune growth factor capture and release. Altogether, our macroporous dextran hydrogels have a vast potential for applications in controlled delivery, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romane Oliverio
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Axe Formulation et Analyse du Médicament (AFAM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Victor Patenaude
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Benoît Liberelle
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Nick Virgilio
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Centre de Recherche sur les Systèmes Polymères et Composites à Haute Performance (CREPEC), Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Xavier Banquy
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Axe Formulation et Analyse du Médicament (AFAM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Gregory De Crescenzo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada.
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15
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Wu Y, Rakotoarisoa M, Angelov B, Deng Y, Angelova A. Self-Assembled Nanoscale Materials for Neuronal Regeneration: A Focus on BDNF Protein and Nucleic Acid Biotherapeutic Delivery. NANOMATERIALS 2022; 12:nano12132267. [PMID: 35808102 PMCID: PMC9268293 DOI: 10.3390/nano12132267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Enabling challenging applications of nanomedicine and precision medicine in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders requires deeper investigations of nanocarrier-mediated biomolecular delivery for neuronal targeting and recovery. The successful use of macromolecular biotherapeutics (recombinant growth factors, antibodies, enzymes, synthetic peptides, cell-penetrating peptide–drug conjugates, and RNAi sequences) in clinical developments for neuronal regeneration should benefit from the recent strategies for enhancement of their bioavailability. We highlight the advances in the development of nanoscale materials for drug delivery in neurodegenerative disorders. The emphasis is placed on nanoformulations for the delivery of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) using different types of lipidic nanocarriers (liposomes, liquid crystalline or solid lipid nanoparticles) and polymer-based scaffolds, nanofibers and hydrogels. Self-assembled soft-matter nanoscale materials show favorable neuroprotective characteristics, safety, and efficacy profiles in drug delivery to the central and peripheral nervous systems. The advances summarized here indicate that neuroprotective biomolecule-loaded nanoparticles and injectable hydrogels can improve neuronal survival and reduce tissue injury. Certain recently reported neuronal dysfunctions in long-COVID-19 survivors represent early manifestations of neurodegenerative pathologies. Therefore, BDNF delivery systems may also help in prospective studies on recovery from long-term COVID-19 neurological complications and be considered as promising systems for personalized treatment of neuronal dysfunctions and prevention or retarding of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wu
- CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France; (Y.W.); (M.R.)
| | - Miora Rakotoarisoa
- CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France; (Y.W.); (M.R.)
| | - Borislav Angelov
- Institute of Physics, ELI Beamlines, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Na Slovance 2, CZ-18221 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Yuru Deng
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 1, Jinlian Road, Longwan District, Wenzhou 325001, China;
| | - Angelina Angelova
- CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France; (Y.W.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence:
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16
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Lambuk L, Mohd Lazaldin MA, Ahmad S, Iezhitsa I, Agarwal R, Uskoković V, Mohamud R. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor-Mediated Neuroprotection in Glaucoma: A Review of Current State of the Art. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875662. [PMID: 35668928 PMCID: PMC9163364 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are neurons of the visual system that are responsible for transmitting signals from the retina to the brain via the optic nerve. Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy characterized by apoptotic loss of RGCs and degeneration of optic nerve fibers. Risk factors such as elevated intraocular pressure and vascular dysregulation trigger the injury that culminates in RGC apoptosis. In the event of injury, the survival of RGCs is facilitated by neurotrophic factors (NTFs), the most widely studied of which is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Its production is regulated locally in the retina, but transport of BDNF retrogradely from the brain to retina is also crucial. Not only that the interruption of this retrograde transport has been detected in the early stages of glaucoma, but significantly low levels of BDNF have also been detected in the sera and ocular fluids of glaucoma patients, supporting the notion that neurotrophic deprivation is a likely mechanism of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Moreover, exogenous NTF including BDNF administration was shown reduce neuronal loss in animal models of various neurodegenerative diseases, indicating the possibility that exogenous BDNF may be a treatment option in glaucoma. Current literature provides an extensive insight not only into the sources, transport, and target sites of BDNF but also the intracellular signaling pathways, other pathways that influence BDNF signaling and a wide range of its functions. In this review, the authors discuss the neuroprotective role of BDNF in promoting the survival of RGCs and its possible application as a therapeutic tool to meet the challenges in glaucoma management. We also highlight the possibility of using BDNF as a biomarker in neurodegenerative disease such as glaucoma. Further we discuss the challenges and future strategies to explore the utility of BDNF in the management of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidawani Lambuk
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | | | - Suhana Ahmad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd, Russia
| | - Renu Agarwal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vuk Uskoković
- TardigradeNano LLC, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
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17
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Optimal Morphometric Characteristics of a Tubular Polymeric Scaffold to Promote Peripheral Nerve Regeneration: A Scoping Review. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14030397. [PMID: 35160387 PMCID: PMC8838152 DOI: 10.3390/polym14030397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular behavior in nerve regeneration is affected by the architecture of the polymeric nerve guide conduits (NGCs); therefore, design features of polymeric NGCs are critical for neural tissue engineering. Hence, the purpose of this scoping review is to summarize the adequate quantitative/morphometric parameters of the characteristics of NGC that provide a supportive environment for nerve regeneration, enhancing the understanding of a previous study. 394 studies were found, of which 29 studies were selected. The selected studies revealed four morphometric characteristics for promoting nerve regeneration: wall thickness, fiber size, pore size, and porosity. An NGC with a wall thickness between 250–400 μm and porosity of 60–80%, with a small pore on the inner surface and a large pore on the outer surface, significantly favored nerve regeneration; resulting in an increase in nutrient permeability, retention of neurotrophic factors, and optimal mechanical properties. On the other hand, the superiority of electrospun fibers is described; however, the size of the fiber is controversial in the literature, obtaining optimal results in the range of 300 nm to 30 µm. The incorporation of these optimal morphometric characteristics will encourage nerve regeneration and help reduce the number of experimental studies as it will provide the initial morphometric parameters for the preparation of an NGC.
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18
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Khosropanah MH, Vaghasloo MA, Shakibaei M, Mueller AL, Kajbafzadeh AM, Amani L, Haririan I, Azimzadeh A, Hassannejad Z, Zolbin MM. Biomedical applications of silkworm (Bombyx Mori) proteins in regenerative medicine (a narrative review). J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2021; 16:91-109. [PMID: 34808032 DOI: 10.1002/term.3267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Silk worm (Bombyx Mori) protein, have been considered as potential materials for a variety of advanced engineering and biomedical applications for decades. Recently, silkworm silk has gained significant importance in research attention mainly because of its remarkable and exceptional mechanical properties. Silk has already been shown to have unique interactions with cells in tissues through bio-recognition units. The natural silk contains fibroin and sericin and has been used in various tissues of the human body (skin, bone, nerve, and so on). Besides, silk also still has anti-cancer, anti-tyrosinase, anti-coagulant, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-diabetic properties. This article is supposed to describe the diverse biomedical capabilities of B. Mori silk as the appropriate biomaterial among the assorted natural and artificial polymers that are presently accessible, and ideal for usage in regenerative medicine fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Khosropanah
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Alizadeh Vaghasloo
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Shakibaei
- Musculoskeletal Research Group and Tumor Biology, Chair of Vegetative Anatomy, Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Mueller
- Musculoskeletal Research Group and Tumor Biology, Chair of Vegetative Anatomy, Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Abdol-Mohammad Kajbafzadeh
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Children's Medical Center, Pediatric Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Amani
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ismaeil Haririan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomaterials and Medical Biomaterials Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy and Department of Pharmaceutics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashkan Azimzadeh
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Children's Medical Center, Pediatric Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Hassannejad
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Children's Medical Center, Pediatric Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Majidi Zolbin
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Children's Medical Center, Pediatric Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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19
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Ramburrun P, Kumar P, Ndobe E, Choonara YE. Gellan-Xanthan Hydrogel Conduits with Intraluminal Electrospun Nanofibers as Physical, Chemical and Therapeutic Cues for Peripheral Nerve Repair. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111555. [PMID: 34768986 PMCID: PMC8583980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimal levels of functional recovery in peripheral nerve injuries remain elusive due to the architectural complexity of the neuronal environment. Commercial nerve repair conduits lack essential guidance cues for the regenerating axons. In this study, the regenerative potential of a biosimulated nerve repair system providing three types of regenerative cues was evaluated in a 10 mm sciatic nerve-gap model over 4 weeks. A thermo-ionically crosslinked gellan-xanthan hydrogel conduit loaded with electrospun PHBV-magnesium oleate-N-acetyl-cysteine (PHBV-MgOl-NAC) nanofibers was assessed for mechanical properties, nerve growth factor (NGF) release kinetics and PC12 viability. In vivo functional recovery was based on walking track analysis, gastrocnemius muscle mass and histological analysis. As an intraluminal filler, PHBV-MgOl-NAC nanofibers improved matrix resilience, deformation and fracture of the hydrogel conduit. NGF release was sustained over 4 weeks, governed by Fickian diffusion and Case-II relaxational release for the hollow conduit and the nanofiber-loaded conduit, respectively. The intraluminal fibers supported PC12 proliferation by 49% compared to the control, preserved up to 43% muscle mass and gradually improved functional recovery. The combined elements of physical guidance (nanofibrous scaffolding), chemical cues (N-acetyl-cysteine and magnesium oleate) and therapeutic cues (NGF and diclofenac sodium) offers a promising strategy for the regeneration of severed peripheral nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poornima Ramburrun
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (P.R.); (P.K.)
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (P.R.); (P.K.)
| | - Elias Ndobe
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa;
| | - Yahya E. Choonara
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (P.R.); (P.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-11-717-2052
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20
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Yan X, Yu Y, Wang S, Xu H, He Q, Wen J, Xu J, Li K, Huang Z, Xu P. Preparation and characterization of conductive nerve guide conduit filled with dual drug-loaded nanofibers. J BIOACT COMPAT POL 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/08839115211053917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) has become one of the common clinical diseases. How to promote the regeneration and function recovery of the damaged peripheral nerve has been the focus of attention in the medical field. Evidence suggests that the longitudinal filling of oriented fibers in nerve guide conduit (NGC) is especially beneficial to the repair of long gap PNI. In this study, polypyrrole (PPy) nanospheres (PNSs) were prepared by the soft-templating method, and mixed with poly (lactic acid) (PLA) to prepare conductive PNSs/PLA NGC, and the optimal ratio of PNSs was 4.5%. PLA and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as shell, chitosan (CS) and paeoniflorin (PF) as core, oriented coaxial nanofibers were obtained and then filled into PNSs/PLA NGC. The composite NGC has excellent mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, hydrophilic properties, and degradation properties. Besides, the successive release of VEGF and PF can play a synergistic role in promoting nerve regeneration. In vitro experiments showed that the composite NGC was nontoxic and suitable for the adhesion and proliferation of nerve cells. In addition, PNSs combined with electrical stimulation (ES) can significantly promote the differentiation and proliferation of nerve cells, which is conducive to nerve regeneration. These positive results indicate that the composite NGC is a promising candidate in the repair of long gap PNI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiumei Yan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shaobing Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, China
| | - Haixing Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qundi He
- Wuhan Mafangshan Middle School, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingyi Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kebi Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhijun Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peihu Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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21
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Shen Y, Zhu J, Liu Q, Ding S, Dun X, He J. Up-Regulation of CD146 in Schwann Cells Following Peripheral Nerve Injury Modulates Schwann Cell Function in Regeneration. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:743532. [PMID: 34720881 PMCID: PMC8552958 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.743532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CD146 is cell adhesion molecule and is implicated in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. However, the involvement of CD146 in peripheral nerve regeneration has not been studied yet. Here, we examine the spatial and temporal expression pattern of CD146 in injured mouse sciatic nerve via high-throughput data analysis, RT-PCR and immunostaining. By microarray data analysis and RT-PCR validation, we show that CD146 mRNA is significantly up-regulated in the nerve bridge and in the distal nerve stump following mouse sciatic nerve transection injury. By single cell sequencing data analysis and immunostaining, we demonstrate that CD146 is up-regulated in Schwann cells and cells associated with blood vessels following mouse peripheral nerve injury. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that CD146 not only has a key role in promoting of blood vessel regeneration but also regulates cell migration. The biological function of CD146 in Schwann cells was further investigated by knockdown of CD146 in rat primary Schwann cells. Functional assessments showed that knockdown of CD146 decreases viability and proliferation of Schwann cells but increases Schwann cell migration. Collectively, our findings imply that CD146 could be a key cell adhesion molecule that is up-regulated in injured peripheral nerves to regulate peripheral nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinying Shen
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qianyan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shiyan Ding
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinpeng Dun
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jianghong He
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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22
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Yeoh S, Warner WS, Eli I, Mahan MA. Rapid-stretch injury to peripheral nerves: comparison of injury models. J Neurosurg 2021; 135:893-903. [PMID: 33157535 DOI: 10.3171/2020.5.jns193448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traditional animal models of nerve injury use controlled crush or transection injuries to investigate nerve regeneration; however, a more common and challenging clinical problem involves closed traction nerve injuries. The authors have produced a precise traction injury model and sought to examine how the pathophysiology of stretch injuries compares with that of crush and transection injuries. METHODS Ninety-five late-adolescent (8-week-old) male mice underwent 1 of 7 injury grades or a sham injury (n > 10 per group): elastic stretch, inelastic stretch, stretch rupture, crush, primary coaptation, secondary coaptation, and critical gap. Animals underwent serial neurological assessment with sciatic function index, tapered beam, and von Frey monofilament testing for 48 days after injury, followed by trichrome and immunofluorescent nerve histology and muscle weight evaluation. RESULTS The in-continuity injuries, crush and elastic stretch, demonstrated different recovery profiles, with more severe functional deficits after crush injury than after elastic stretch immediately following injury (p < 0.05). However, animals with either injury type returned to baseline performance in all neurological assessments, accompanied by minimal change in nerve histology. Inelastic stretch, a partial discontinuity injury, produced more severe neurological deficits, incomplete return of function, 47% ± 9.1% (mean ± SD) reduction of axon counts (p < 0.001), and partial neuroma formation within the nerve. Discontinuity injuries, including immediate and delayed nerve repair, stretch rupture, and critical gap, manifested severe, long-term neurological deficits and profound axonal loss, coupled with intraneural scar formation. Although repaired nerves demonstrated axon regeneration across the gap, rupture and critical gap injuries demonstrated negligible axon crossing, despite rupture injuries having healed into continuity. CONCLUSIONS Stretch-injured nerves present unique pathology and functional deficits compared with traditional nerve injury models. Because of the profound neuroma formation, stretch injuries represent an opportunity to study the pathophysiology associated with clinical injury mechanisms. Further validation for comparison with human injuries will require evaluation in a large-animal model.
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23
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Aligned microfiber-induced macrophage polarization to guide schwann-cell-enabled peripheral nerve regeneration. Biomaterials 2021; 272:120767. [PMID: 33813259 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Mechanistic understanding of the topological cues delivered by biomaterials in promotion of oriented tissue regeneration (e.g., peripheral nerve regrowth) remains largely elusive. Here, we engineered nerve conduits composed of oriented microfiber-bundle cores and randomly organized nanofiber sheaths to particularly interrogate the regulatory mechanism of microfiber orientation on promoted peripheral nerve regeneration. With comprehensive yet systematic analyses, we were able to elucidate the intricate cascade of biological responses associated with conduit-assisted nerve regrowth, i.e., oriented microfibers facilitated macrophage recruitment and subsequent polarization toward a pro-healing phenotype, which in turn promoted Schwann cell (SC) migration, myelinization and axonal extension. Pronounced improvement of nerve regeneration in rat sciatic nerve injury was evidenced with enhanced electrophysiologic function, sciatic functional index and alleviated muscle atrophy 3 months post-implantation. The obtained results offer essential insights on the topological regulation of biomaterials in functional nerve tissue regeneration via immune modulation.
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24
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Yin X, He T, Chen R, Cui H, Li G. Impact of neurotrophic factors combination therapy on retinitis pigmentosa. J Int Med Res 2020. [PMCID: PMC7711238 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520967833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective We aimed to determine the location of neurotrophic receptors tropomyosin
receptor kinase (Trk)B, TrkC, and ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor
(CNTFR)α in the retina of retinal degeneration (rd) mice
and to explore the dynamic changes of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2),
Bcl-2-associated X-protein (Bax), and microtubule-associated protein light
chain 3 (LC3) expression and ultrastructure in the retina of
rd mice intravitreally injected with neurotrophic
factors. Methods Rd mice aged 2 and 3 weeks post-natally (PN) received
intravitreal injections of neurotrophic factors. Two weeks later, their
retinas were harvested for the detection of Bax, Bcl-2, and LC3 mRNA and
protein expression. Results TrkB and TrkC expression levels were lower at 3 weeks PN compared with 0, 1,
and 2 weeks PN, but CNTFRα expression was still detected in certain layers.
The three receptors were expressed in different retinal layers at the same
timepoint. Bax expression was downregulated in, rhBDNF + rhCNTF,
rhBDNF + rhNT-3, groups 2 weeks after intravitreal injection; Bcl-2
expression was upregulated in the rhBDNF + rhCNTF + rhNT-3 group at PN-4w;
and LC3 expression was upregulated in rhBDNF + rhCNTF + rhNT-3 groups. Conclusions The combined use of neurotrophic factors had a more significant effect on
Bax, Bcl-2, and LC3 expression than the same factors used alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobei Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Ting He
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Chen
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Cui
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Genlin Li
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
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25
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Li R, Li DH, Zhang HY, Wang J, Li XK, Xiao J. Growth factors-based therapeutic strategies and their underlying signaling mechanisms for peripheral nerve regeneration. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2020; 41:1289-1300. [PMID: 32123299 PMCID: PMC7608263 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-019-0338-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury (PNI), one of the most common concerns following trauma, can result in a significant loss of sensory or motor function. Restoration of the injured nerves requires a complex cellular and molecular response to rebuild the functional axons so that they can accurately connect with their original targets. However, there is no optimized therapy for complete recovery after PNI. Supplementation with exogenous growth factors (GFs) is an emerging and versatile therapeutic strategy for promoting nerve regeneration and functional recovery. GFs activate the downstream targets of various signaling cascades through binding with their corresponding receptors to exert their multiple effects on neurorestoration and tissue regeneration. However, the simple administration of GFs is insufficient for reconstructing PNI due to their short half‑life and rapid deactivation in body fluids. To overcome these shortcomings, several nerve conduits derived from biological tissue or synthetic materials have been developed. Their good biocompatibility and biofunctionality made them a suitable vehicle for the delivery of multiple GFs to support peripheral nerve regeneration. After repairing nerve defects, the controlled release of GFs from the conduit structures is able to continuously improve axonal regeneration and functional outcome. Thus, therapies with growth factor (GF) delivery systems have received increasing attention in recent years. Here, we mainly review the therapeutic capacity of GFs and their incorporation into nerve guides for repairing PNI. In addition, the possible receptors and signaling mechanisms of the GF family exerting their biological effects are also emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Duo-Hui Li
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Hong-Yu Zhang
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiao-Kun Li
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Jian Xiao
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
- Department of Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou, Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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26
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Prautsch KM, Schmidt A, Paradiso V, Schaefer DJ, Guzman R, Kalbermatten DF, Madduri S. Modulation of Human Adipose Stem Cells' Neurotrophic Capacity Using a Variety of Growth Factors for Neural Tissue Engineering Applications: Axonal Growth, Transcriptional, and Phosphoproteomic Analyses In Vitro. Cells 2020; 9:E1939. [PMID: 32839392 PMCID: PMC7565501 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We report on a potential strategy involving the exogenous neurotrophic factors (NTF) for enhancing the neurotrophic capacity of human adipose stem cells (ASC) in vitro. For this, ASC were stimulated for three days using NTF, i.e., nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin 3 (NT3), NT4, glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). The resulting conditioned medium (CM) as well as individual NTF exhibited distinct effects on axonal outgrowth from dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants. In particular, CM derived from NT3-stimulated ASC (CM-NT3-ASC) promoted robust axonal outgrowth. Subsequent transcriptional analysis of DRG cultures in response to CM-NT3-ASC displayed significant upregulation of STAT-3 and GAP-43. In addition, phosphoproteomic analysis of NT3-stimulated ASC revealed significant changes in the phosphorylation state of different proteins that are involved in cytokine release, growth factors signaling, stem cell maintenance, and differentiation. Furthermore, DRG cultures treated with CM-NT3-ASC exhibited significant changes in the phosphorylation levels of proteins involved in tubulin and actin cytoskeletal pathways, which are crucial for axonal growth and elongation. Thus, the results obtained at the transcriptional, proteomic, and cellular level reveal significant changes in the neurotrophic capacity of ASC following NT3 stimulation and provide new options for improving the axonal growth-promoting potential of ASC in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina M. Prautsch
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Spitalstrasse 21, 4021 Basel, Switzerland; (K.M.P.); (D.J.S.); (D.F.K.)
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4021 Basel, Switzerland;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Gewerbestrasse 14, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Schmidt
- Biozentrum, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50/70, 4056 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Viola Paradiso
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4021 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Dirk J. Schaefer
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Spitalstrasse 21, 4021 Basel, Switzerland; (K.M.P.); (D.J.S.); (D.F.K.)
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4021 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Raphael Guzman
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4021 Basel, Switzerland;
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Basel, Spitalstrasse 21, 4021 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel F. Kalbermatten
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Spitalstrasse 21, 4021 Basel, Switzerland; (K.M.P.); (D.J.S.); (D.F.K.)
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4021 Basel, Switzerland;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Gewerbestrasse 14, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Srinivas Madduri
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Spitalstrasse 21, 4021 Basel, Switzerland; (K.M.P.); (D.J.S.); (D.F.K.)
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4021 Basel, Switzerland;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Gewerbestrasse 14, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4021 Basel, Switzerland;
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27
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Min Q, Parkinson DB, Dun XP. Migrating Schwann cells direct axon regeneration within the peripheral nerve bridge. Glia 2020; 69:235-254. [PMID: 32697392 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schwann cells within the peripheral nervous system possess a remarkable regenerative potential. Current research shows that peripheral nerve-associated Schwann cells possess the capacity to promote repair of multiple tissues including peripheral nerve gap bridging, skin wound healing, digit tip repair as well as tooth regeneration. One of the key features of the specialized repair Schwann cells is that they become highly motile. They not only migrate into the area of damaged tissue and become a key component of regenerating tissue but also secrete signaling molecules to attract macrophages, support neuronal survival, promote axonal regrowth, activate local mesenchymal stem cells, and interact with other cell types. Currently, the importance of migratory Schwann cells in tissue regeneration is most evident in the case of a peripheral nerve transection injury. Following nerve transection, Schwann cells from both proximal and distal nerve stumps migrate into the nerve bridge and form Schwann cell cords to guide axon regeneration. The formation of Schwann cell cords in the nerve bridge is key to successful peripheral nerve repair following transection injury. In this review, we first examine nerve bridge formation and the behavior of Schwann cell migration in the nerve bridge, and then discuss how migrating Schwann cells direct regenerating axons into the distal nerve. We also review the current understanding of signals that could activate Schwann cell migration and signals that Schwann cells utilize to direct axon regeneration. Understanding the molecular mechanism of Schwann cell migration could potentially offer new therapeutic strategies for peripheral nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Min
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - David B Parkinson
- Peninsula Medical School, Faculty of Health, Plymouth University, Plymouth, Devon, UK
| | - Xin-Peng Dun
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
- Peninsula Medical School, Faculty of Health, Plymouth University, Plymouth, Devon, UK
- The Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
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28
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Qiu S, Rao Z, He F, Wang T, Xu Y, Du Z, Yao Z, Lin T, Yan L, Quan D, Zhu Q, Liu X. Decellularized nerve matrix hydrogel and glial-derived neurotrophic factor modifications assisted nerve repair with decellularized nerve matrix scaffolds. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2020; 14:931-943. [PMID: 32336045 DOI: 10.1002/term.3050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Nerve defects are challenging to address clinically without satisfactory treatments. As a reliable alternative to autografts, decellularized nerve matrix scaffolds (DNM-S) have been widely used in clinics for surgical nerve repair. However, DNM-S remain inferior to autografts in their ability to support nerve regeneration for long nerve defects. In this study, we systematically and clearly presented the nano-architecture of nerve-specific structures, including the endoneurium, basement membrane and perineurium/epineurium in DNM-S. Furthermore, we modified the DNM-S by supplementing decellularized nerve matrix hydrogel (DNMG) and glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and then bridged a 50-mm sciatic nerve defect in a beagle model. Fifteen beagles were randomly divided into three groups (five per group): an autograft group, DNM-S group and GDNF-DNMG-modified DNM-S (DNM-S/GDNF@DNMG) group. DNM-S/GDNF@DNMG, as optimized nerve grafts, were used to bridge nerve defects in the same manner as in the DNM-S group. The repair outcome was evaluated by behavioural observations, electrophysiological assessments, regenerated nerve tissue histology and reinnervated target muscle examinations. Compared with the DNM-S group, limb function, electrophysiological responses and histological findings were improved in the DNM-S/GDNF@DNMG group 6 months after grafting, reflecting a narrower gap between the effects of DNM-S and autografts. In conclusion, modification of DNM-S with DNMG and GDNF enhanced nerve regeneration and functional recovery, indicating that noncellular modification of DNM-S is a promising method for treating long nerve defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Qiu
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zilong Rao
- PCFM Lab, GD HPPC Lab, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fulin He
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiwei Xu
- PCFM Lab, GD HPPC Lab, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaoyi Du
- PCFM Lab, GD HPPC Lab, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Yao
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Lin
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liwei Yan
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daping Quan
- Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue-Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China.,GD Functional Biomaterials Engineering Technology Research Center, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,PCFM Lab, GD HPPC Lab, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingtang Zhu
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue-Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaolin Liu
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue-Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China
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29
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Weng T, Wu P, Zhang W, Zheng Y, Li Q, Jin R, Chen H, You C, Guo S, Han C, Wang X. Regeneration of skin appendages and nerves: current status and further challenges. J Transl Med 2020; 18:53. [PMID: 32014004 PMCID: PMC6996190 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02248-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-engineered skin (TES), as an analogue of native skin, is promising for wound repair and regeneration. However, a major drawback of TES products is a lack of skin appendages and nerves to enhance skin healing, structural integrity and skin vitality. Skin appendages and nerves are important constituents for fully functional skin. To date, many studies have yielded remarkable results in the field of skin appendages reconstruction and nerve regeneration. However, patients often complain about a loss of skin sensation and even cutaneous chronic pain. Restoration of pain, temperature, and touch perceptions should now be a major challenge to solve in order to improve patients’ quality of life. Current strategies to create skin appendages and sensory nerve regeneration are mainly based on different types of seeding cells, scaffold materials, bioactive factors and involved signaling pathways. This article provides a comprehensive overview of different strategies for, and advances in, skin appendages and sensory nerve regeneration, which is an important issue in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Weng
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Pan Wu
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yurong Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Qiong Li
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Ronghua Jin
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Haojiao Chen
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chuangang You
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Songxue Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chunmao Han
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Xingang Wang
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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Joung D, Lavoie NS, Guo SZ, Park SH, Parr AM, McAlpine MC. 3D Printed Neural Regeneration Devices. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2020; 30:10.1002/adfm.201906237. [PMID: 32038121 PMCID: PMC7007064 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201906237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Neural regeneration devices interface with the nervous system and can provide flexibility in material choice, implantation without the need for additional surgeries, and the ability to serve as guides augmented with physical, biological (e.g., cellular), and biochemical functionalities. Given the complexity and challenges associated with neural regeneration, a 3D printing approach to the design and manufacturing of neural devices could provide next-generation opportunities for advanced neural regeneration via the production of anatomically accurate geometries, spatial distributions of cellular components, and incorporation of therapeutic biomolecules. A 3D printing-based approach offers compatibility with 3D scanning, computer modeling, choice of input material, and increasing control over hierarchical integration. Therefore, a 3D printed implantable platform could ultimately be used to prepare novel biomimetic scaffolds and model complex tissue architectures for clinical implants in order to treat neurological diseases and injuries. Further, the flexibility and specificity offered by 3D printed in vitro platforms have the potential to be a significant foundational breakthrough with broad research implications in cell signaling and drug screening for personalized healthcare. This progress report examines recent advances in 3D printing strategies for neural regeneration as well as insight into how these approaches can be improved in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daeha Joung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Physics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Nicolas S. Lavoie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Shuang-Zhuang Guo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Sung Hyun Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ann M. Parr
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Michael C. McAlpine
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Manoukian OS, Baker JT, Rudraiah S, Arul MR, Vella AT, Domb AJ, Kumbar SG. Functional polymeric nerve guidance conduits and drug delivery strategies for peripheral nerve repair and regeneration. J Control Release 2019; 317:78-95. [PMID: 31756394 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries can be extremely debilitating, resulting in sensory and motor loss-of-function. Endogenous repair is limited to non-severe injuries in which transection of nerves necessitates surgical intervention. Traditional treatment approaches include the use of biological grafts and alternative engineering approaches have made progress. The current article serves as a comprehensive, in-depth perspective on peripheral nerve regeneration, particularly nerve guidance conduits and drug delivery strategies. A detailed background of peripheral nerve injury and repair pathology, and an in-depth look into augmented nerve regeneration, nerve guidance conduits, and drug delivery strategies provide a state-of-the-art perspective on the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ohan S Manoukian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Jiana T Baker
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Swetha Rudraiah
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Saint Joseph, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Michael R Arul
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Anthony T Vella
- Department of Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Abraham J Domb
- Institute of Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Sangamesh G Kumbar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA.
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Alessandrino A, Fregnan F, Biagiotti M, Muratori L, Bassani GA, Ronchi G, Vincoli V, Pierimarchi P, Geuna S, Freddi G. SilkBridge™: a novel biomimetic and biocompatible silk-based nerve conduit. Biomater Sci 2019; 7:4112-4130. [PMID: 31359013 DOI: 10.1039/c9bm00783k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Silk fibroin (Bombyx mori) was used to manufacture a nerve conduit (SilkBridge™) characterized by a novel 3D architecture. The wall of the conduit consists of two electrospun layers (inner and outer) and one textile layer (middle), perfectly integrated at the structural and functional level. The manufacturing technology conferred high compression strength on the device, thus meeting clinical requirements for physiological and pathological compressive stresses. In vitro cell interaction studies were performed through direct contact assays with SilkBridge™ using the glial RT4-D6P2T cells, a schwannoma cell line, and a mouse motor neuron NSC-34 cell line. The results revealed that the material is capable of sustaining cell proliferation, that the glial RT4-D6P2T cells increased their density and organized themselves in a glial-like morphology, and that NSC-34 motor neurons exhibited a greater neuritic length with respect to the control substrate. In vivo pilot assays were performed on adult female Wistar rats. A 10 mm long gap in the median nerve was repaired with 12 mm SilkBridge™. At two weeks post-operation several cell types colonized the lumen. Cells and blood vessels were also visible between the different layers of the conduit wall. Moreover, the presence of regenerated myelinated fibers with a thin myelin sheath at the proximal level was observed. Taken together, all these results demonstrated that SilkBridge™ has an optimized balance of biomechanical and biological properties, being able to sustain a perfect cellular colonization of the conduit and the progressive growth of the regenerating nerve fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - F Fregnan
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - M Biagiotti
- Silk Biomaterials Srl, 22074 Lomazzo (Co), Italy.
| | - L Muratori
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - G A Bassani
- Silk Biomaterials Srl, 22074 Lomazzo (Co), Italy.
| | - G Ronchi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - V Vincoli
- Silk Biomaterials Srl, 22074 Lomazzo (Co), Italy.
| | - P Pierimarchi
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, 00083 Rome, Italy
| | - S Geuna
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - G Freddi
- Silk Biomaterials Srl, 22074 Lomazzo (Co), Italy.
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Ma Y, Wise AK, Shepherd RK, Richardson RT. New molecular therapies for the treatment of hearing loss. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 200:190-209. [PMID: 31075354 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
An estimated 466 million people suffer from hearing loss worldwide. Sensorineural hearing loss is characterized by degeneration of key structures of the sensory pathway in the cochlea such as the sensory hair cells, the primary auditory neurons and their synaptic connection to the hair cells - the ribbon synapse. Various strategies to protect or regenerate these sensory cells and structures are the subject of intensive research. Yet despite recent advances in our understandings of the capacity of the cochlea for repair and regeneration there are currently no pharmacological or biological interventions for hearing loss. Current research focusses on localized cochlear drug, gene and cell-based therapies. One of the more promising drug-based therapies is based on neurotrophic factors for the repair of the ribbon synapse after noise exposure, as well as preventing loss of primary auditory neurons and regrowth of the auditory neuron fibers after severe hearing loss. Drug therapy delivery technologies are being employed to address the specific needs of neurotrophin and other therapies for hearing loss that include the need for high doses, long-term delivery, localised or cell-specific targeting and techniques for their safe and efficacious delivery to the cochlea. Novel biomaterials are enabling high payloads of drugs to be administered to the cochlea with subsequent slow-release properties that are proving to be beneficial for treating hearing loss. In parallel, new gene therapy technologies are addressing the need for cell specificity and high efficacy for the treatment of both genetic and acquired hearing loss with promising reports of hearing recovery. Some biomaterials and cell therapies are being used in conjunction with the cochlear implant ensuring therapeutic benefit to the primary neurons during electrical stimulation. This review will introduce the auditory system, hearing loss and the potential for repair and regeneration in the cochlea. Drug delivery to the cochlea will then be reviewed, with a focus on new biomaterials, gene therapy technologies, cell therapy and the use of the cochlear implant as a vehicle for drug delivery. With the current pre-clinical research effort into therapies for hearing loss, including clinical trials for gene therapy, the future for the treatment for hearing loss is looking bright.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutian Ma
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Chemical Engineering, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew K Wise
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Medical Bionics Department, East Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery - Otolaryngology, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robert K Shepherd
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Medical Bionics Department, East Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery - Otolaryngology, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rachael T Richardson
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Medical Bionics Department, East Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery - Otolaryngology, East Melbourne, Australia.
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Sun AX, Prest TA, Fowler JR, Brick RM, Gloss KM, Li X, DeHart M, Shen H, Yang G, Brown BN, Alexander PG, Tuan RS. Conduits harnessing spatially controlled cell-secreted neurotrophic factors improve peripheral nerve regeneration. Biomaterials 2019; 203:86-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.01.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Liu Y, Yu S, Gu X, Cao R, Cui S. Tissue-engineered nerve grafts using a scaffold-independent and injectable drug delivery system: a novel design with translational advantages. J Neural Eng 2019; 16:036030. [PMID: 30965290 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ab17a0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Currently commercially available nerve conduits have demonstrated suboptimal clinical efficacy in repairing peripheral nerve defects. Although tissue-engineered nerve grafts (TENGs) with sustained release of neurotrophic factors (NTFs) are experimentally proved to be more effective than these blank conduits, there remains a lack of clinical translation. NTFs are typically immobilized onto scaffold materials of the conduit via adsorption, specific binding or other incorporation techniques. These scaffold-based delivery strategies increase complexity and cost of conduit fabrication and lack flexibility in choosing different drugs. Therefore, to facilitate clinical translation and commercialization, we construct a TENG using a scaffold-independent drug delivery system (DDS). APPROACH This study adopted a scaffold-independent DDS based on methoxy-poly (ethylene glycol)-b-poly(γ-ethyl-L-glutamate) (mPEG-PELG) thermosensitive hydrogels that undergo sol-to-gel transition at body temperature. In addition, TENG, a chitosan scaffold filled with nerve growth factor (NGF)-loaded mPEG-PELG that gel in the lumen upon injection during surgery and function as a drug-releasing conduit-filler, was designed. Subsequently, the efficacy of DDS and therapeutic effects of TENG were assessed. MAIN RESULTS The results demonstrated that NGF-loaded mPEG-PELG controllably and sustainably released bioactive NGF for 28 d. When bridging a 10 mm rat sciatic nerve gap, the morphological, electrophysiological, and functional analyses revealed that NGF-releasing TENG (Scaffold + NGF/mPEG-PELG) achieved superior regenerative outcomes compared to plain scaffolds and those combined with systemic delivery of NGF (daily intramuscular injection (IM)), and its effects were relatively similar to autografts. SIGNIFICANCE This study has proposed a TENG using thermosensitive hydrogels as an injectable implant to controllably release NGF, which has promising therapeutic potential and translatability. Such TENGs obviate the need for conduit modification, complex preloading or binding mediators, therefore they allow the ease of drug switching in clinical practice and greatly simplify the manufacturing process due to the independent preparation of drug delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxi Liu
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
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Zhang L, Yang W, Xie H, Wang H, Wang J, Su Q, Li X, Song Y, Wang G, Wang L, Wang Z. Sericin Nerve Guidance Conduit Delivering Therapeutically Repurposed Clobetasol for Functional and Structural Regeneration of Transected Peripheral Nerves. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2019; 5:1426-1439. [PMID: 33405618 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.8b01297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury often causes significant function loss. Autologous nerve grafting as a gold-standard repair strategy for treating such an injury is limited by donor nerve supply. Tissue-engineered nerve guidance conduits (TENGCs) as a promising alternative for autografting are challenged by large nerve gaps. Herein, we fabricate a glutaraldehyde-cross-linked sericin nerve guidance conduit (GSC) incorporated with clobetasol, a glucocorticoid receptor agonist, for repairing a 10 mm long sciatic nerve gap in a rat model. The GSC exhibits biocompatibility and regeneration-favorable physicochemical properties. GSC's degradation products promote the secretion of neurotrophic factors in Schwann cells. By repurposing clobetasol for peripheral nerve regeneration, our work uncovers clobetasol's previously unknown functions in promoting Schwann cell proliferation and upregulating the expression of myelin-related genes. Importantly, the implantation of this clobetasol-loaded GSC in vivo leads to successful regeneration of the transected sciatic nerve. Strikingly, the regeneration outcome is functionally comparable to that of autologous nerve grafting (evidenced by three parameters). Specifically, the static sciatic index (SSI), relative reaction time (RRT) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) in Clobetasol/GSC group are -74.55, 1.30, and 46.4 mm/s at Week 12, respectively, while these parameters are -64.53, 1.23, and 49.8 mm/s in Autograft group. Thus, this work represents the first report unveiling clobetasol's potential in peripheral nerve regeneration, reveals the feasibility of applying a sericin conduit for repairing a large nerve defect, and demonstrates the effectiveness of the clobetasol-loaded-GSC based strategy in transected nerves' regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Wen Yang
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Hongjian Xie
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Basic School of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Qiangfei Su
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yu Song
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Guobin Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Research Center for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
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Langert KA, Brey EM. Strategies for Targeted Delivery to the Peripheral Nerve. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:887. [PMID: 30542262 PMCID: PMC6277764 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Delivery of compounds to the peripheral nervous system has the potential to be used as a treatment for a broad range of conditions and applications, including neuropathic pain, regional anesthesia, traumatic nerve injury, and inherited and inflammatory neuropathies. However, efficient delivery of therapeutic doses can be difficult to achieve due to peripheral neuroanatomy and the restrictiveness of the blood-nerve barrier. Depending on the underlying integrity of the blood-nerve barrier in the application at hand, several strategies can be employed to navigate the peripheral nerve architecture and facilitate targeted delivery to the peripheral nerve. This review describes different applications where targeted delivery to the peripheral nervous system is desired, the challenges that the blood-nerve barrier poses in each application, and bioengineering strategies that can facilitate delivery in each application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Langert
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Research Service, Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Eric M Brey
- Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital, San Antonio, TX, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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Labroo P, Hilgart D, Davis B, Lambert C, Sant H, Gale B, Shea JE, Agarwal J. Drug-delivering nerve conduit improves regeneration in a critical-sized gap. Biotechnol Bioeng 2018; 116:143-154. [PMID: 30229866 DOI: 10.1002/bit.26837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Autologous nerve grafts are the current "gold standard" for repairing large nerve gaps. However, they cause morbidity at the donor nerve site and only a limited amount of nerve can be harvested. Nerve conduits are a promising alternative to autografts and can act as guidance cues for the regenerating axons, without the need to harvest donor nerve. Separately, it has been shown that localized delivery of GDNF can enhance axon growth and motor recovery. FK506, an FDA approved small molecule, has also been shown to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration. This paper describes the design of a novel hole-based drug delivery apparatus integrated with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) nerve conduit for controlled local delivery of a protein such as GDNF or a small molecule such as FK506. The PTFE devices were tested in a diffusion chamber, and the bioactivity of the released media was evaluated by measuring neurite growth of dorsal root ganglions (DRGs) exposed to the released drugs. The drug delivering nerve guide was able to release bioactive concentrations of FK506 or GDNF. Following these tests, optimized drug releasing nerve conduits were implanted across 10 mm sciatic nerve gaps in a BL6 yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) mouse model, where they demonstrated significant improvement in muscle mass, compound muscle action potential, and axon myelination in vivo as compared with nerve conduits without the drug. The drug delivery nerve guide could release drug for extended periods of time and enhance axon growth in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Labroo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - David Hilgart
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Brett Davis
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Christopher Lambert
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Himanshu Sant
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Bruce Gale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Jill E Shea
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Jayant Agarwal
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Labroo P, Shea J, Edwards K, Ho S, Davis B, Sant H, Goodwin I, Gale B, Agarwal J. Novel drug delivering conduit for peripheral nerve regeneration. J Neural Eng 2018; 14:066011. [PMID: 28829045 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aa867d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This paper describes the design of a novel drug delivery apparatus integrated with a poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) based nerve guide conduit for controlled local delivery of nerve growth factor (NGF) and application in peripheral nerve gap injury. APPROACH An NGF dosage curve was acquired to determine the minimum in vitro concentration for optimal neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells; PLGA based drug delivery devices were then designed and tested in vitro and in vivo across 15 mm rat sciatic nerve gap injury model. MAIN RESULTS The drug delivery nerve guide was able to release NGF for 28 d at concentrations (0.1-10 ng ml-1) that were shown to enhance DRG neurite growth. Furthermore, the released NGF was bioactive and able to enhance DRG neurite growth. Following these tests, optimized NGF-releasing nerve conduits were implanted across 15 mm sciatic nerve gaps in a rat model, where they demonstrated significant myelination and muscle innervation in vivo as compared to empty nerve conduits (p < 0.05). This drug delivery nerve guide can release NGF for extended periods of time and enhance axon growth in vitro and in vivo and has the potential to improve nerve regeneration following a peripheral nerve injury. SIGNIFICANCE This integrated drug delivering nerve guide simplifies the design process and provides increased versatility for releasing a variety of different growth factors. This innovative device has the potential for broad applicability and allows for easier customization to change the type of drugs and dosage of individual drugs without devising a completely new biomaterial-drug conjugate each time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Labroo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States of America
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Wu H, Fang Q, Liu J, Yu X, Xu Y, Wan Y, Xiao B. Multi-tubule conduit-filler constructs loaded with gradient-distributed growth factors for neural tissue engineering applications. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2018; 77:671-682. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Minnan PET Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 316003, PR China
| | - Qing Fang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Jiaoyan Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Xiaofeng Yu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Yigui Xu
- Department of Research and Development, ZCPPE Ltd., 5160 Skyline Way NE, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2E 6V1
| | - Ying Wan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China.
| | - Bo Xiao
- Institute for Clean Energy and Advanced Materials, Faculty for Materials and Energy, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China.
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Bikis C, Degrugillier L, Thalmann P, Schulz G, Müller B, Hieber SE, Kalbermatten DF, Madduri S. Three-dimensional imaging and analysis of entire peripheral nerves after repair and reconstruction. J Neurosci Methods 2017; 295:37-44. [PMID: 29179953 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2017.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We wanted to achieve a three-dimensional (3D), non-destructive imaging and automatic post-analysis and evaluation of reconstructed peripheral nerves without involving cutting and staining processes. NEW METHOD We used a laboratory-based micro computed tomography system for imaging, as well as a custom analysis protocol. The sample preparation was also adapted in order to achieve 3D images with true micrometer resolution and suitable contrast. RESULTS Analysis of the acquired tomograms enabled the quantitative assessment of 3D tissue structures, i.e., surface morphology, nerve fascicles, nerve tissue volume, geometry, and vascular regrowth. The resulting data showed significant differences between operated animals and non-operated controls. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS Our approach avoids the sampling error associated with conventional 2D visualization approaches and holds promise for automation of the analysis of large series of datasets. CONCLUSIONS We have presented a potential way for 3D imaging and analysis of entire regenerated nerves non-destructively, paving the way for high-throughput analysis of therapeutic conditions of treating adult nerve injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Bikis
- Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucas Degrugillier
- Center for Bioengineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter Thalmann
- Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Georg Schulz
- Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bert Müller
- Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Simone E Hieber
- Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Daniel F Kalbermatten
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Basel University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Pathology, Basel University Hospital, Switzerland
| | - Srinivas Madduri
- Center for Bioengineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland; Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Basel University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland.
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Wu H, Liu J, Fang Q, Xiao B, Wan Y. Establishment of nerve growth factor gradients on aligned chitosan-polylactide /alginate fibers for neural tissue engineering applications. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2017; 160:598-609. [PMID: 29028608 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2017.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Nerve conduits containing aligned fibrous fillers with gradiently distributed signal molecules are essential for long-gap nerve repair. This study was to develop an approach for establishing nerve growth factor (NGF) gradients onto the aligned chitosan-polylactide (CH-PLA) fibers. CH-PLA containing 37wt% of PLA was spun into fibers using a wet-spinning technique. CH-PLA fibers showed much higher wet-state tensile strength, enhanced degradation tolerance and significantly lower swelling degree in comparison to chitosan fibers. The CH-PLA fibers with diameters from 40 to 60μm were selected and segmentally coated in bundles using NGF-contained alginate solutions to establish NGF gradients lengthwise along fibers. The diameter of resulting NGF-loaded CH-PLA/alginate fibers was well controlled within a range between 60 and 120μm. Calcium ion crosslinked alginate coating layers on fibers showed abilities to administer the sustainable NGF release in a gradient distribution manner for at least 5 weeks. NGF-induced neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells confirmed that bioactivity of NGF released from fibers was well retained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Minnan PET Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 316003, PR China
| | - Jiaoyan Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Qing Fang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Institute for Clean Energy and Advanced Materials, Faculty for Materials and Energy, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China.
| | - Ying Wan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China.
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Kohn-Polster C, Bhatnagar D, Woloszyn DJ, Richtmyer M, Starke A, Springwald AH, Franz S, Schulz-Siegmund M, Kaplan HM, Kohn J, Hacker MC. Dual-Component Gelatinous Peptide/Reactive Oligomer Formulations as Conduit Material and Luminal Filler for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E1104. [PMID: 28531139 PMCID: PMC5455012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18051104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toward the next generation of nerve guidance conduits (NGCs), novel biomaterials and functionalization concepts are required to address clinical demands in peripheral nerve regeneration (PNR). As a biological polymer with bioactive motifs, gelatinous peptides are promising building blocks. In combination with an anhydride-containing oligomer, a dual-component hydrogel system (cGEL) was established. First, hollow cGEL tubes were fabricated by a continuous dosing and templating process. Conduits were characterized concerning their mechanical strength, in vitro and in vivo degradation and biocompatibility. Second, cGEL was reformulated as injectable shear thinning filler for established NGCs, here tyrosine-derived polycarbonate-based braided conduits. Thereby, the formulation contained the small molecule LM11A-31. The biofunctionalized cGEL filler was assessed regarding building block integration, mechanical properties, in vitro cytotoxicity, and growth permissive effects on human adipose tissue-derived stem cells. A positive in vitro evaluation motivated further application of the filler material in a sciatic nerve defect. Compared to the empty conduit and pristine cGEL, the functionalization performed superior, though the autologous nerve graft remains the gold standard. In conclusion, LM11A-31 functionalized cGEL filler with extracellular matrix (ECM)-like characteristics and specific biochemical cues holds great potential to support PNR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kohn-Polster
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology, Leipzig University, 04317 Leipzig, Germany.
- Collaborative Research Center (SFB-TR67), Matrixengineering Leipzig and Dresden, Germany.
| | - Divya Bhatnagar
- New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8066, USA.
| | - Derek J Woloszyn
- New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8066, USA.
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Matthew Richtmyer
- New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8066, USA.
| | - Annett Starke
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology, Leipzig University, 04317 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Alexandra H Springwald
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology, Leipzig University, 04317 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Sandra Franz
- Collaborative Research Center (SFB-TR67), Matrixengineering Leipzig and Dresden, Germany.
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology of Medical Faculty of Leipzig University, 04317 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Michaela Schulz-Siegmund
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology, Leipzig University, 04317 Leipzig, Germany.
- Collaborative Research Center (SFB-TR67), Matrixengineering Leipzig and Dresden, Germany.
| | - Hilton M Kaplan
- New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8066, USA.
| | - Joachim Kohn
- New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8066, USA.
| | - Michael C Hacker
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology, Leipzig University, 04317 Leipzig, Germany.
- Collaborative Research Center (SFB-TR67), Matrixengineering Leipzig and Dresden, Germany.
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Santos D, Wieringa P, Moroni L, Navarro X, Valle JD. PEOT/PBT Guides Enhance Nerve Regeneration in Long Gap Defects. Adv Healthc Mater 2017; 6. [PMID: 27973708 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201600298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Development of new nerve guides is required for replacing autologous nerve grafts for the repair of long gap defects after nerve injury. A nerve guide comprised only of electrospun fibers able to bridge a critical (15 mm) nerve gap in a rat animal model is reported for the first time. The nerve conduits are made of poly(ethylene oxide terephthalate) and poly(butylene terephthalate) (PEOT/PBT), a biocompatible copolymer composed of alternating amorphous, hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide terephthalate), and crystalline, hydrophobic poly(butylene terephthalate) segments. These guides show suitable mechanical properties, high porosity, and fibers aligned in the longitudinal axis of the guide. In vitro studies show that both neurites and Schwann cells exhibit growth alignment with PA fibers. In vivo studies reveal that, after rat sciatic nerve transection and repair with PEOT/PBT guides, axons grow occupying a larger area compared to silicone tubes. Moreover, after repair of limiting (10 mm) and critical (15 mm) nerve gaps, PEOT/PBT guides significantly increase the percentage of regenerated nerves, the number of regenerated myelinated axons, and improve motor, sensory, and autonomic reinnervation in both gaps. This nerve conduit design combines the properties of PEOT/PBT with electrospun structure, demonstrating that nerve regeneration through long gaps can be achieved through the design of instructive biomaterial constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Santos
- Institute of Neurosciences; Department of Cell Biology; Physiology and Immunology; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and CIBERNED; 08193 Bellaterra Spain
| | - Paul Wieringa
- Department of Complex Tissue Regeneration; MERLN Institute; Maastricht University; 6229 ER Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- Department of Complex Tissue Regeneration; MERLN Institute; Maastricht University; 6229 ER Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Institute of Neurosciences; Department of Cell Biology; Physiology and Immunology; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and CIBERNED; 08193 Bellaterra Spain
| | - Jaume Del Valle
- Institute of Neurosciences; Department of Cell Biology; Physiology and Immunology; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and CIBERNED; 08193 Bellaterra Spain
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Labroo P, Shea J, Sant H, Gale B, Agarwal J. Effect Of combining FK506 and neurotrophins on neurite branching and elongation. Muscle Nerve 2016; 55:570-581. [PMID: 27503321 DOI: 10.1002/mus.25370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is a clinical need to improve the outcomes of peripheral nerve regeneration and repair after injury. In addition to its immunosuppressive effects, FK506 (tacrolimus) has been shown to have neuroregenerative properties. To determine biologically relevant local FK506 and growth factor concentrations, we performed an in vitro bioassay using dorsal root ganglion (DRG) from chicken embryos. METHODS Neurite elongation and neurite branching were analyzed microscopically after addition of FK506, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and nerve growth factor (NGF), each alone and in combination. RESULTS FK506 induced modest neurite elongation (∼500-800 µm) without improving neurite branching significantly. The combination of FK506 with NGF, GDNF, or both, exerted a potentiating or competitive effect on neurite elongation (∼700-1100 µm) based on dosage and competitive effect on neurite branching (∼0.2-0.4). CONCLUSIONS These results strongly suggest that the interaction of FK506 with GDNF and NGF mediates distinct enhancement of neurite growth. Muscle Nerve 55: 570-581, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Labroo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jill Shea
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, 30 N 1900 E, 3b400, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84132, USA
| | - Himanshu Sant
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Bruce Gale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jayant Agarwal
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, 30 N 1900 E, 3b400, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84132, USA
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Koss K, Tsui C, Unsworth LD. Induced Neural Differentiation of MMP-2 Cleaved (RADA) 4 Drug Delivery Systems. J Control Release 2016; 243:204-213. [PMID: 27720765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
(RADA)4 self-assembling peptides (SAPs) are promising for neural nanoscaffolds with on-demand drug delivery capabilities due to their automated synthesis, in-situ assembly, and potential for interaction with and release of biomolecules. Neuroinflammation cued on-demand drug release, due to up-regulated proteases, may well be vital in the treatment of several neurological diseases. In these conditions, releasing neurotrophic growth factors (NTFs) could potentially lead to neuroprotection and neurogenesis. As such, (RADA)4 was made with the high and low activity matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) cleaved sequences, GPQG+IASQ (CP1) and GPQG+PAGQ (CP2), the brain-derived NTF secretion stimulating peptide MVG (DP1) and the ciliary NTF analogue DGGL (DP2). PC-12 cell culture was performed to assess bioactive substrate cell adhesion and NTF specific neuronal differentiation. The laminin-derived IKVAV peptide, known for neural cell attachment and interaction, was tethered to (RADA)4-IKVAV and mixed in increasing increments with (RADA)4 for this purpose. With 1 nanomolar MMP-2 treatment, product formation was observed to increase over a three day period, with (RADA)4/(RADA)4-CP1/CP2 mixture, however there was little difference between groups. Smaller CP1/CP2 concentrations displayed comparable (RADA)4 nanoscale morphology to higher concentrations. Acetylcholine esterase and neural differentiation was observed over 3 days with 1 nM MMP-2 treatment according to the following makeup: 8/1/1 (RADA)4/(RADA)4-IKVAV/(RADA)4-CP1/CP2-DP1/DP2. Signalling gradually increased in all groups, and neurite outgrowth was visible after three days.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Koss
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, 11487 89 ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M7; National Institute for Nanotechnology, NRC, 11421 Saskatchewan Dr NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M9
| | - C Tsui
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, 11487 89 ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M7; National Institute for Nanotechnology, NRC, 11421 Saskatchewan Dr NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M9
| | - L D Unsworth
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, 11487 89 ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M7; National Institute for Nanotechnology, NRC, 11421 Saskatchewan Dr NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M9.
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Merkle HP. Drug delivery's quest for polymers: Where are the frontiers? Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2016; 97:293-303. [PMID: 26614554 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2015.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Revised: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Since the legendary 1964 article of Folkman and Long entitled "The use of silicone rubber as a carrier for prolonged drug therapy" the role of polymers in controlled drug delivery has come a long way. Today it is evident that polymers play a crucial if not the prime role in this field. The latest boost owes to the interest in drug delivery for the purpose of tissue engineering in regenerative medicine. The focus of this commentary is on a selection of general and personal observations that are characteristic for the current state of polymer therapeutics and carriers. It briefly highlights selected examples for the long march of synthetic polymer-drug conjugates from bench to bedside, comments on the ambivalence of selected polymers as inert excipients versus biological response modifiers, and on the yet unsolved dilemma of cationic polymers for the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics. Further subjects are the complex design of multifunctional polymeric carriers including recent concepts towards functional supramolecular polymers, as well as observations on stimuli-sensitive polymers and the currently ongoing trend towards natural and naturally-derived biopolymers. The final topic is the discovery and early development of a novel type of biodegradable polyesters for parenteral use. Altogether, it is not the basic and applied research in polymer therapeutics and carriers, but the translational process that is the key hurdle to proceed towards an authoritative approval of new polymer therapeutics and carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans P Merkle
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Campus Hönggerberg, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland.
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Barbon S, Stocco E, Negro A, Dalzoppo D, Borgio L, Rajendran S, Grandi F, Porzionato A, Macchi V, De Caro R, Parnigotto PP, Grandi C. In vitro assessment of TAT - Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor therapeutic potential for peripheral nerve regeneration. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2016; 309:121-8. [PMID: 27597256 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In regenerative neurobiology, Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) is raising high interest as a multifunctional neurocytokine, playing a key role in the regeneration of injured peripheral nerves. Despite its promising trophic and regulatory activity, its clinical application is limited by the onset of severe side effects, due to the lack of efficient intracellular trafficking after administration. In this study, recombinant CNTF linked to the transactivator transduction domain (TAT) was investigated in vitro and found to be an optimized fusion protein which preserves neurotrophic activity, besides enhancing cellular uptake for therapeutic advantage. Moreover, a compelling protein delivery method was defined, in the future perspective of improving nerve regeneration strategies. Following determination of TAT-CNTF molecular weight and concentration, its specific effect on neural SH-SY5Y and PC12 cultures was assessed. Cell proliferation assay demonstrated that the fusion protein triggers PC12 cell growth within 6h of stimulation. At the same time, the activation of signal transduction pathway and enhancement of cellular trafficking were found to be accomplished in both neural cell lines after specific treatment with TAT-CNTF. Finally, the recombinant growth factor was successfully loaded on oxidized polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) scaffolds, and more efficiently released when polymer oxidation rate increased. Taken together, our results highlight that the TAT domain addiction to the protein sequence preserves CNTF specific neurotrophic activity in vitro, besides improving cellular uptake. Moreover, oxidized PVA could represent an ideal biomaterial for the development of nerve conduits loaded with the fusion protein to be delivered to the site of nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Barbon
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy; Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling (TES) ONLUS, Via De Sanctis 10, Caselle di Selvazzano Dentro, 35030 Padua, Italy.
| | - Elena Stocco
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy; Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling (TES) ONLUS, Via De Sanctis 10, Caselle di Selvazzano Dentro, 35030 Padua, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Negro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Via Colombo 3, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Daniele Dalzoppo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Luca Borgio
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Senthilkumar Rajendran
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Francesca Grandi
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Surgery, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 3, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Andrea Porzionato
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via Gabelli 65, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Veronica Macchi
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via Gabelli 65, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Raffaele De Caro
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via Gabelli 65, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Pier Paolo Parnigotto
- Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling (TES) ONLUS, Via De Sanctis 10, Caselle di Selvazzano Dentro, 35030 Padua, Italy.
| | - Claudio Grandi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
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Hossain R, Kim B, Pankratz R, Ajam A, Park S, Biswal SL, Choi Y. Handcrafted multilayer PDMS microchannel scaffolds for peripheral nerve regeneration. Biomed Microdevices 2015; 17:109. [DOI: 10.1007/s10544-015-0012-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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