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Yonesi M, Garcia-Nieto M, Guinea GV, Panetsos F, Pérez-Rigueiro J, González-Nieto D. Silk Fibroin: An Ancient Material for Repairing the Injured Nervous System. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:429. [PMID: 33806846 PMCID: PMC8004633 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13030429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Silk refers to a family of natural fibers spun by several species of invertebrates such as spiders and silkworms. In particular, silkworm silk, the silk spun by Bombyx mori larvae, has been primarily used in the textile industry and in clinical settings as a main component of sutures for tissue repairing and wound ligation. The biocompatibility, remarkable mechanical performance, controllable degradation, and the possibility of producing silk-based materials in several formats, have laid the basic principles that have triggered and extended the use of this material in regenerative medicine. The field of neural soft tissue engineering is not an exception, as it has taken advantage of the properties of silk to promote neuronal growth and nerve guidance. In addition, silk has notable intrinsic properties and the by-products derived from its degradation show anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Finally, this material can be employed for the controlled release of factors and drugs, as well as for the encapsulation and implantation of exogenous stem and progenitor cells with therapeutic capacity. In this article, we review the state of the art on manufacturing methodologies and properties of fiber-based and non-fiber-based formats, as well as the application of silk-based biomaterials to neuroprotect and regenerate the damaged nervous system. We review previous studies that strategically have used silk to enhance therapeutics dealing with highly prevalent central and peripheral disorders such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and peripheral trauma. Finally, we discuss previous research focused on the modification of this biomaterial, through biofunctionalization techniques and/or the creation of novel composite formulations, that aim to transform silk, beyond its natural performance, into more efficient silk-based-polymers towards the clinical arena of neuroprotection and regeneration in nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Yonesi
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain; (M.Y.); (G.V.G.)
- Silk Biomed SL, 28260 Madrid, Spain;
| | | | - Gustavo V. Guinea
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain; (M.Y.); (G.V.G.)
- Silk Biomed SL, 28260 Madrid, Spain;
- Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fivos Panetsos
- Silk Biomed SL, 28260 Madrid, Spain;
- Neurocomputing and Neurorobotics Research Group, Faculty of Biology and Faculty of Optics, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Pérez-Rigueiro
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain; (M.Y.); (G.V.G.)
- Silk Biomed SL, 28260 Madrid, Spain;
- Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel González-Nieto
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain; (M.Y.); (G.V.G.)
- Silk Biomed SL, 28260 Madrid, Spain;
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Tecnología Fotónica y Bioingeniería, ETSI Telecomunicaciones, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Wang P, Zhao H, Yao Y, Lu C, Ma J, Chen R, Pan J. Repair of facial nerve crush injury in rabbits using collagen plus basic fibroblast growth factor. J Biomed Mater Res A 2020; 108:1329-1337. [PMID: 32090462 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Facial nerves are frequently crushed or cut during facial surgery. In this study, the feasibility of repairing facial nerves in rabbits after crush or cut off injury was evaluated using collagen conduits with A collagen-binding domain (CBD)-human basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). A total of 39 six-month-old New Zealand White rabbits were randomly divided into four groups of nine rabbits, and bilateral crush or cut off injuries were made on each animal's face. Three rabbits were classified as the healthy control. The facial nerves were cut or crushed and then were either untreated or wrapped with a collagen conduit plus bFGF. At the 15, 30, and 90 days after the injury, three rabbits in each group were sacrificed. Regeneration of the injured facial nerve was evaluated using electrophysiological examination (compound muscle action potentials, CAMPs), scanning electron microscopy, and histological observation. The results suggested that using collagen conduits with recombinant proteins CBD-bFGF to repair facial nerves with crush or cut off injuries promoted functional facial nerve recovery. This treatment, as a possible therapeutic for patients with facial nerve injury, requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piao Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Plastic & Trauma Surgery, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Zhao
- Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Department of Prosthodontics, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Lu
- Department of General Dentistry, Beijing Chongwen Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China
| | - Jinling Ma
- Department of Multidisciplinary Treatment Center, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Renji Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Plastic & Trauma Surgery, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Juli Pan
- Department of Multidisciplinary Treatment Center, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Kopec BM, Kiptoo P, Zhao L, Rosa-Molinar E, Siahaan TJ. Noninvasive Brain Delivery and Efficacy of BDNF to Stimulate Neuroregeneration and Suppression of Disease Relapse in EAE Mice. Mol Pharm 2019; 17:404-416. [PMID: 31846344 PMCID: PMC10088282 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.9b00644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The number of FDA-approved protein drugs (biologics), such as antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, hormones, and enzymes, continues to grow at a rapid rate; most of these drugs are used to treat diseases of the peripheral body. Unfortunately, most of these biologics cannot be used to treat brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and brain tumors in a noninvasive manner due to their inability to permeate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Therefore, there is a need to develop an effective method to deliver protein drugs into the brain. Here, we report a proof of concept to deliver a recombinant brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to the brains of healthy and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice via intravenous (iv) injections by co-administering BDNF with a BBB modulator (BBBM) peptide ADTC5. Western blot evaluations indicated that ADTC5 enhanced the brain delivery of BDNF in healthy SJL/elite mice compared to BDNF alone and triggered the phosphorylation of TrkB receptors in the brain. The EAE mice treated with BDNF + ADTC5 suppressed EAE relapse compared to those treated with BDNF alone, ADTC5 alone, or vehicle. We further demonstrated that brain delivery of BDNF induced neuroregeneration via visible activation of oligodendrocytes, remyelination, and ARC and EGR1 mRNA transcript upregulation. In summary, we have demonstrated that ADTC5 peptide modulates the BBB to permit noninvasive delivery of BDNF to exert its neuroregeneration activity in the brains of EAE mice.
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4
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Yuan Y, Xu XY, Lao J, Zhao X. Proteomic analysis of trans-hemispheric motor cortex reorganization following contralateral C 7 nerve transfer. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:331-339. [PMID: 29557385 PMCID: PMC5879907 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.226429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve transfer is the most common treatment for total brachial plexus avulsion injury. After nerve transfer, the movement of the injured limb may be activated by certain movements of the healthy limb at the early stage of recovery, i.e., trans-hemispheric reorganization. Previous studies have focused on functional magnetic resonance imaging and changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor and growth associated protein 43, but there have been no proteomics studies. In this study, we designed a rat model of total brachial plexus avulsion injury involving contralateral C7 nerve transfer. Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation and western blot assay were then used to screen differentially expressed proteins in bilateral motor cortices. We found that most differentially expressed proteins in both cortices of upper limb were associated with nervous system development and function (including neuron differentiation and development, axonogenesis, and guidance), microtubule and cytoskeleton organization, synapse plasticity, and transmission of nerve impulses. Two key differentially expressed proteins, neurofilament light (NFL) and Thy-1, were identified. In contralateral cortex, the NFL level was upregulated 2 weeks after transfer and downregulated at 1 and 5 months. The Thy-1 level was upregulated from 1 to 5 months. In the affected cortex, the NFL level increased gradually from 1 to 5 months. Western blot results of key differentially expressed proteins were consistent with the proteomic findings. These results indicate that NFL and Thy-1 play an important role in trans-hemispheric organization following total brachial plexus root avulsion and contralateral C7 nerve transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Yuan
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Ministry of Health; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve & Microsurgery, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiu-Yue Xu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Ministry of Health; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve & Microsurgery, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Lao
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Ministry of Health; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve & Microsurgery, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Ministry of Health; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve & Microsurgery, Shanghai, China
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Takaku S, Yako H, Niimi N, Akamine T, Kawanami D, Utsunomiya K, Sango K. Establishment of a myelinating co-culture system with a motor neuron-like cell line NSC-34 and an adult rat Schwann cell line IFRS1. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 149:537-543. [PMID: 29435762 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1649-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Co-culture models of neurons and Schwann cells have been utilized for the study of myelination and demyelination in the peripheral nervous system; in most of the previous studies, however, these cells were obtained by primary culture with embryonic or neonatal animals. A spontaneously immortalized Schwann cell line IFRS1 from long-term cultures of adult Fischer rat peripheral nerves has been shown to retain fundamental ability to myelinate neurites in co-cultures with adult rat dorsal root ganglion neurons and nerve growth factor-primed PC12 cells. Our current investigation focuses on the establishment of stable co-culture system with IFRS1 cells and NSC-34 motor neuron-like cells. NSC-34 cells were seeded at a low density (2 × 103/cm2) and maintained for 5-7 days in serum-containing medium supplemented with non-essential amino acids and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF; 10 ng/mL). Upon observation of neurite outgrowth under a phase-contrast microscope, the NSC-34 cells were exposed to an anti-mitotic agent mitomycin C (1 µg/mL) for 12-16 h, then co-cultured with IFRS1 cells (2 × 104/cm2), and maintained in serum-containing medium supplemented with ascorbic acid (50 µg/mL), BDNF (10 ng/mL), and ciliary neurotrophic factor (10 ng/mL). Double immunofluorescence staining carried out at day 28 of the co-culture showed myelin protein (P0 or PMP22)-immunoreactive IFRS1 cells surrounding the βIII tubulin-immunoreactive neurites. This co-culture system can be a beneficial tool to study the pathogenesis of motor neuron diseases (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Charcot-Marie-Tooth diseases, and immune-mediated demyelinating neuropathies) and novel therapeutic approaches against them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizuka Takaku
- Diabetic Neuropathy Project, Department of Sensory and Motor Systems, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506, Japan
| | - Hideji Yako
- Diabetic Neuropathy Project, Department of Sensory and Motor Systems, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506, Japan
| | - Naoko Niimi
- Diabetic Neuropathy Project, Department of Sensory and Motor Systems, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506, Japan
| | - Tomoyo Akamine
- Diabetic Neuropathy Project, Department of Sensory and Motor Systems, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506, Japan.,Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Daiji Kawanami
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Kazunori Utsunomiya
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Kazunori Sango
- Diabetic Neuropathy Project, Department of Sensory and Motor Systems, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506, Japan.
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6
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Ghasemi M, Alizadeh E, Saei Arezoumand K, Fallahi Motlagh B, Zarghami N. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) delivery to retina: an overview of current research advancements. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 46:1694-1707. [PMID: 29065723 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2017.1391820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The intraocular administration of the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been found to attenuate the photoreceptor degeneration and preserve retinal functions in the animal research models of the inherited or induced retinal disease. Studies with the aim of CNTF transfer to the posterior segment inside the eye have been directed to determine the best method for its administration. An ideal delivery method would overcome the eye drug elimination mechanisms or barriers and provide the sustained release of the CNTF into retina in the safest fashion with the minimum harm to the quality of life. This review focuses on the present state of CNTF delivery to retina, also provides an overview of available technologies and their challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghasemi
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Effat Alizadeh
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Khatereh Saei Arezoumand
- b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | | | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,d Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
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7
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Fang XY, Zhang WM, Zhang CF, Wong WM, Li W, Wu W, Lin JH. Lithium accelerates functional motor recovery by improving remyelination of regenerating axons following ventral root avulsion and reimplantation. Neuroscience 2016; 329:213-25. [PMID: 27185485 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Brachial plexus injury (BPI) often involves the complete or partial avulsion of one or more of the cervical nerve roots, which leads to permanent paralysis of the innervated muscles. Reimplantation surgery has been attempted as a clinical treatment for brachial plexus root avulsion but has failed to achieve complete functional recovery. Lithium is a mood stabilizer drug that is used to treat bipolar disorder; however, its effects on spinal cord or peripheral nerve injuries have also been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether lithium can improve functional motor recovery after ventral root avulsion and reimplantation in a rat model of BPI. The results showed that systemic treatment with a clinical dose of lithium promoted motor neuron outgrowth and increased the efficiency of motor unit regeneration through enhanced remyelination. An analysis of myelin-associated genes showed that the effects of lithium started during the early phase of remyelination and persisted through the late stage of the process. Efficient remyelination of the regenerated axons in the lithium-treated rats led to an earlier functional recovery. Therefore, we demonstrated that lithium might be a potential clinical treatment for BPI in combination with reimplantation surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yu Fang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Wen-Ming Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Chao-Fan Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China; Department of Orthopedics & Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Wai-Man Wong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Wen Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Wutian Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Joint Laboratory for CNS Regeneration, Jinan University and The University of Hong Kong, GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jian-Hua Lin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
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8
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Martínez-Gálvez G, Zambrano JM, Diaz Soto JC, Zhan WZ, Gransee HM, Sieck GC, Mantilla CB. TrkB gene therapy by adeno-associated virus enhances recovery after cervical spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2015; 276:31-40. [PMID: 26607912 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2015.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Unilateral cervical spinal cord hemisection at C2 (C2SH) interrupts descending bulbospinal inputs to phrenic motoneurons, paralyzing the diaphragm muscle. Recovery after C2SH is enhanced by brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling via the tropomyosin-related kinase subtype B (TrkB) receptor in phrenic motoneurons. The role for gene therapy using adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated delivery of TrkB to phrenic motoneurons is not known. The present study determined the therapeutic efficacy of intrapleural delivery of AAV7 encoding for full-length TrkB (AAV-TrkB) to phrenic motoneurons 3 days post-C2SH. Diaphragm EMG was recorded chronically in male rats (n=26) up to 21 days post-C2SH. Absent ipsilateral diaphragm EMG activity was verified 3 days post-C2SH. A greater proportion of animals displayed recovery of ipsilateral diaphragm EMG activity during eupnea by 14 and 21 days post-SH after AAV-TrkB (10/15) compared to AAV-GFP treatment (2/11; p=0.031). Diaphragm EMG amplitude increased over time post-C2SH (p<0.001), and by 14 days post-C2SH, AAV-TrkB treated animals displaying recovery achieved 48% of the pre-injury values compared to 27% in AAV-GFP treated animals. Phrenic motoneuron mRNA expression of glutamatergic AMPA and NMDA receptors revealed a significant, positive correlation (r(2)=0.82), with increased motoneuron NMDA expression evident in animals treated with AAV-TrkB and that displayed recovery after C2SH. Overall, gene therapy using intrapleural delivery of AAV-TrkB to phrenic motoneurons is sufficient to promote recovery of diaphragm activity, adding a novel potential intervention that can be administered after upper cervical spinal cord injury to improve impaired respiratory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Martínez-Gálvez
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juan M Zambrano
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juan C Diaz Soto
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Wen-Zhi Zhan
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Heather M Gransee
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Gary C Sieck
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States; Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Carlos B Mantilla
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States; Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States.
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9
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Eggers R, Tannemaat MR, De Winter F, Malessy MJA, Verhaagen J. Clinical and neurobiological advances in promoting regeneration of the ventral root avulsion lesion. Eur J Neurosci 2015; 43:318-35. [PMID: 26415525 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Root avulsions due to traction to the brachial plexus causes complete and permanent loss of function. Until fairly recent, such lesions were considered impossible to repair. Here we review clinical repair strategies and current progress in experimental ventral root avulsion lesions. The current gold standard in patients with a root avulsion is nerve transfer, whereas reimplantation of the avulsed root into the spinal cord has been performed in a limited number of cases. These neurosurgical repair strategies have significant benefit for the patient but functional recovery remains incomplete. Developing new ways to improve the functional outcome of neurosurgical repair is therefore essential. In the laboratory, the molecular and cellular changes following ventral root avulsion and the efficacy of intervention strategies have been studied at the level of spinal motoneurons, the ventral spinal root and peripheral nerve, and the skeletal muscle. We present an overview of cell-based pharmacological and neurotrophic factor treatment approaches that have been applied in combination with surgical reimplantation. These interventions all demonstrate neuroprotective effects on avulsed motoneurons, often accompanied with various degrees of axonal regeneration. However, effects on survival are usually transient and robust axon regeneration over long distances has as yet not been achieved. Key future areas of research include finding ways to further extend the post-lesion survival period of motoneurons, the identification of neuron-intrinsic factors which can promote persistent and long-distance axon regeneration, and finally prolonging the pro-regenerative state of Schwann cells in the distal nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Eggers
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn R Tannemaat
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Fred De Winter
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn J A Malessy
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognition research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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10
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Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury afflicts individuals from all walks of life. Despite the peripheral nervous system’s intrinsic ability to regenerate, many patients experience incomplete functional recovery. Surgical repair aims to expedite this recovery process in the most thorough manner possible. However, full recovery is still rarely seen especially when nerve injury is compounded with polytrauma where surgical repair is delayed. Pharmaceutical strategies supplementary to nerve microsurgery have been investigated but surgery remains the only viable option. Brief low-frequency electrical stimulation of the proximal nerve stump after primary repair has been widely investigated. This article aims to review the currently known biological basis for the regenerative effects of acute brief low-frequency electrical stimulation on axonal regeneration and outline the recent clinical applications of the electrical stimulation protocol to demonstrate the significant translational potential of this modality for repairing peripheral nerve injuries. The review concludes with a discussion of emerging new advancements in this exciting area of research. The current literature indicates the imminent clinical applicability of acute brief low-frequency electrical stimulation after surgical repair to effectively promote axonal regeneration as the stimulation has yielded promising evidence to maximize functional recovery in diverse types of peripheral nerve injuries.
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11
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English AW, Wilhelm JC, Ward PJ. Exercise, neurotrophins, and axon regeneration in the PNS. Physiology (Bethesda) 2015; 29:437-45. [PMID: 25362637 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00028.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation and exercise are treatments to enhance recovery from peripheral nerve injuries. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and androgen receptor signaling are requirements for the effectiveness of these treatments. Increased neuronal activity is adequate to promote regeneration in injured nerves, but the dosing of activity and its relationship to neurotrophins and sex steroid hormones is less clear. Translation of these therapies will require principles associated with their cellular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur W English
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; and
| | - Jennifer C Wilhelm
- Department of Psychology, College of Charleston, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Patricia J Ward
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; and
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12
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Li B, Qiu T, Iyer KS, Yan Q, Yin Y, Xie L, Wang X, Li S. PRGD/PDLLA conduit potentiates rat sciatic nerve regeneration and the underlying molecular mechanism. Biomaterials 2015; 55:44-53. [PMID: 25934451 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury requires optimal conditions in both macro-environment and micro-environment for reestablishment. Though various strategies have been carried out to improve the macro-environment, the underlying molecular mechanism of axon regeneration in the micro-environment provided by nerve conduit remains unclear. In this study, the rat sciatic nerve of 10 mm defect was made and bridged by PRGD/PDLLA nerve conduit. We investigated the process of nerve regeneration using histological, functional and real time PCR analyses after implantation from 7 to 35 days. Our data demonstrated that the ciliary neurotrophic factor highly expressed and up-regulated the downstream signaling pathways, in the case of activated signals, the expressions of axon sprout relative proteins, such as tubulin and growth-associated protein-43, were strongly augmented. Taken together, these data suggest a possible mechanism of axon regeneration promoted by PRGD/PDLLA conduit, which created a micro-environment for enhancement of diffusion of neurotrophic factors secreted by the injured nerve stumps, and activation of molecular signal transduction involved in growth cone, to potentiate the nerve recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Tong Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China.
| | - K Swaminathan Iyer
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA 6009, Australia
| | - Qiongjiao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Yixia Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Lijuan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Shipu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China.
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Complementary effects of two growth factors in multifunctionalized silk nanofibers for nerve reconstruction. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109770. [PMID: 25313579 PMCID: PMC4196919 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
With the aim of forming bioactive guides for peripheral nerve regeneration, silk fibroin was electrospun to obtain aligned nanofibers. These fibers were functionalized by incorporating Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Ciliary NeuroTrophic Factor (CNTF) during electrospinning. PC12 cells grown on the fibers confirmed the bioavailability and bioactivity of the NGF, which was not significantly released from the fibers. Primary neurons from rat dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) were grown on the nanofibers and anchored to the fibers and grew in a directional fashion based on the fiber orientation, and as confirmed by growth cone morphology. These biofunctionalized nanofibers led to a 3-fold increase in neurite length at their contact, which was likely due to the NGF. Glial cell growth, alignment and migration were stimulated by the CNTF in the functionalized nanofibers. Organotypic culture of rat fetal DRGs confirmed the complementary effect of both growth factors in multifunctionalized nanofibers, which allowed glial cell migration, alignment and parallel axonal growth in structures resembling the ‘bands of Bungner’ found in situ. Graftable multi-channel conduits based on biofunctionalized aligned silk nanofibers were developed as an organized 3D scaffold. Our bioactive silk tubes thus represent new options for a biological and biocompatible nerve guidance conduit.
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Lithium enhances axonal regeneration in peripheral nerve by inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase 3β activation. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:658753. [PMID: 24967390 PMCID: PMC4055222 DOI: 10.1155/2014/658753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2014] [Revised: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Brachial plexus injury often involves traumatic root avulsion resulting in permanent paralysis of the innervated muscles. The lack of sufficient regeneration from spinal motoneurons to the peripheral nerve (PN) is considered to be one of the major causes of the unsatisfactory outcome of various surgical interventions for repair of the devastating injury. The present study was undertaken to investigate potential inhibitory signals which influence axonal regeneration after root avulsion injury. The results of the study showed that root avulsion triggered GSK-3β activation in the injured motoneurons and remaining axons in the ventral funiculus. Systemic application of a clinical dose of lithium suppressed activated GSK-3β in the lesioned spinal cord to the normal level and induced extensive axonal regeneration into replanted ventral roots. Our study suggests that GSK-3β activity is involved in negative regulation for axonal elongation and regeneration and lithium, the specific GSK-3β inhibitor, enhances motoneuron regeneration from CNS to PNS.
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May VEL, Ettle B, Poehler AM, Nuber S, Ubhi K, Rockenstein E, Winner B, Wegner M, Masliah E, Winkler J. α-Synuclein impairs oligodendrocyte progenitor maturation in multiple system atrophy. Neurobiol Aging 2014; 35:2357-68. [PMID: 24698767 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2013] [Revised: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Multiple system atrophy (MSA), an atypical parkinsonian disorder, is characterized by α-synuclein (α-syn(+)) cytoplasmatic inclusions in mature oligodendrocytes. Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) represent a distinct cell population with the potential to replace dysfunctional oligodendrocytes. However, the role of OPCs in MSA and their potential to replace mature oligodendrocytes is still unclear. A postmortem analysis in MSA patients revealed α-syn within OPCs and an increased number of striatal OPCs. In an MSA mouse model, an age-dependent increase of dividing OPCs within the striatum and the cortex was detected. Despite of myelin loss, there was no reduction of mature oligodendrocytes in the corpus callosum or the striatum. Dissecting the underlying molecular mechanisms an oligodendroglial cell line expressing human α-syn revealed that α-syn delays OPC maturation by severely downregulating myelin-gene regulatory factor and myelin basic protein. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor was reduced in MSA models and its in vitro supplementation partially restored the phenotype. Taken together, efficacious induction of OPC maturation may open the window to restore glial and neuronal function in MSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena E L May
- Department of Molecular Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Ettle
- Department of Molecular Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anne-Maria Poehler
- Department of Molecular Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Silke Nuber
- Department of Neurosciences and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kiren Ubhi
- Department of Neurosciences and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Edward Rockenstein
- Department of Neurosciences and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Beate Winner
- Junior Research Group III, Interdisciplinary Centre of Clinical Research, Nikolaus Fiebiger Centre for Molecular Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Wegner
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Eliezer Masliah
- Department of Neurosciences and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jürgen Winkler
- Department of Molecular Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Neurosciences and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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16
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Combined treatment with platelet-rich plasma and brain-derived neurotrophic factor-overexpressing bone marrow stromal cells supports axonal remyelination in a rat spinal cord hemi-section model. Cytotherapy 2013; 15:792-804. [PMID: 23731762 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2013.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Revised: 03/24/2013] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Combining biologic matrices is becoming a better choice to advance stem cell-based therapies. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a biologic product of concentrated platelets and has been used to promote regeneration of peripheral nerves after injury. We examined whether PRP could induce rat bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) differentiation in vitro and whether a combination of BMSCs, PRP and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) could provide additive therapeutic benefits in vivo after spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS BMSCs and BDNF-secreting BMSCs (BDNF-BMSCs) were cultured with PRP for 7 days and 21 days, respectively, and neurofilament (NF)-200, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K) gene levels were assessed. After T10 hemi-section in 102 rats, 15-μL scaffolds (PRP alone, BMSCs, PRP/BMSCs, BDNF-BMSCs or PRP/BDNF-BMSCs) were transplanted into the lesion area, and real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, immunohistochemistry and ultrastructural studies were performed. RESULTS The messenger RNA expression of NF-200, GFAP, MAP2 and p70S6K was promoted in BMSCs and BDNF-BMSCs after culture with PRP in vitro. BDNF levels were significantly higher in the injured spinal cord after implantation of BDNF-BMSCs. In the PRP/BDNF-BMSCs group at 8 weeks postoperatively, more GFAP was observed, with less accumulation of astrocytes at the graft-host interface. Rats that received PRP and BDNF-BMSC implants showed enhanced hind limb locomotor performance at 8 weeks postoperatively compared with control animals, with more axonal remyelination. CONCLUSIONS A combined treatment comprising PRP and BDNF-overexpressing BMSCs produced beneficial effects in rats with regard to functional recovery after SCI through enhancing migration of astrocytes into the transplants and axonal remyelination.
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Berrocal YA, Almeida VW, Gupta R, Levi AD. Transplantation of Schwann cells in a collagen tube for the repair of large, segmental peripheral nerve defects in rats. J Neurosurg 2013; 119:720-32. [DOI: 10.3171/2013.4.jns121189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Object
Segmental nerve defects pose a daunting clinical challenge, as peripheral nerve injury studies have established that there is a critical nerve gap length for which the distance cannot be successfully bridged with current techniques. Construction of a neural prosthesis filled with Schwann cells (SCs) could provide an alternative treatment to successfully repair these long segmental gaps in the peripheral nervous system. The object of this study was to evaluate the ability of autologous SCs to increase the length at which segmental nerve defects can be bridged using a collagen tube.
Methods
The authors studied the use of absorbable collagen conduits in combination with autologous SCs (200,000 cells/μl) to promote axonal growth across a critical size defect (13 mm) in the sciatic nerve of male Fischer rats. Control groups were treated with serum only–filled conduits of reversed sciatic nerve autografts. Animals were assessed for survival of the transplanted SCs as well as the quantity of myelinated axons in the proximal, middle, and distal portions of the channel.
Results
Schwann cell survival was confirmed at 4 and 16 weeks postsurgery by the presence of prelabeled green fluorescent protein–positive SCs within the regenerated cable. The addition of SCs to the nerve guide significantly enhanced the regeneration of myelinated axons from the nerve stump into the proximal (p < 0.001) and middle points (p < 0.01) of the tube at 4 weeks. The regeneration of myelinated axons at 16 weeks was significantly enhanced throughout the entire length of the nerve guide (p < 0.001) as compared with their number in a serum–only filled tube and was similar in number compared with the reversed autograft. Autotomy scores were significantly lower in the animals whose sciatic nerve was repaired with a collagen conduit either without (p < 0.01) or with SCs (p < 0.001) when compared with a reversed autograft.
Conclusions
The technique of adding SCs to a guidance channel significantly enhanced the gap distance that can be repaired after peripheral nerve injury with long segmental defects and holds promise in humans. Most importantly, this study represents some of the first essential steps in bringing autologous SC-based therapies to the domain of peripheral nerve injuries with long segmental defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yerko A. Berrocal
- 1The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida; and
| | - Vania W. Almeida
- 1The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida; and
| | - Ranjan Gupta
- 2Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California–Irvine, California
| | - Allan D. Levi
- 1The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida; and
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18
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Godinho MJ, Teh L, Pollett MA, Goodman D, Hodgetts SI, Sweetman I, Walters M, Verhaagen J, Plant GW, Harvey AR. Immunohistochemical, ultrastructural and functional analysis of axonal regeneration through peripheral nerve grafts containing Schwann cells expressing BDNF, CNTF or NT3. PLoS One 2013; 8:e69987. [PMID: 23950907 PMCID: PMC3739754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
We used morphological, immunohistochemical and functional assessments to determine the impact of genetically-modified peripheral nerve (PN) grafts on axonal regeneration after injury. Grafts were assembled from acellular nerve sheaths repopulated ex vivo with Schwann cells (SCs) modified to express brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a secretable form of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), or neurotrophin-3 (NT3). Grafts were used to repair unilateral 1 cm defects in rat peroneal nerves and 10 weeks later outcomes were compared to normal nerves and various controls: autografts, acellular grafts and grafts with unmodified SCs. The number of regenerated βIII-Tubulin positive axons was similar in all grafts with the exception of CNTF, which contained the fewest immunostained axons. There were significantly lower fiber counts in acellular, untransduced SC and NT3 groups using a PanNF antibody, suggesting a paucity of large caliber axons. In addition, NT3 grafts contained the greatest number of sensory fibres, identified with either IB4 or CGRP markers. Examination of semi- and ultra-thin sections revealed heterogeneous graft morphologies, particularly in BDNF and NT3 grafts in which the fascicular organization was pronounced. Unmyelinated axons were loosely organized in numerous Remak bundles in NT3 grafts, while the BDNF graft group displayed the lowest ratio of umyelinated to myelinated axons. Gait analysis revealed that stance width was increased in rats with CNTF and NT3 grafts, and step length involving the injured left hindlimb was significantly greater in NT3 grafted rats, suggesting enhanced sensory sensitivity in these animals. In summary, the selective expression of BDNF, CNTF or NT3 by genetically modified SCs had differential effects on PN graft morphology, the number and type of regenerating axons, myelination, and locomotor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Godinho
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lip Teh
- Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Unit, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Margaret A. Pollett
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Douglas Goodman
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Stuart I. Hodgetts
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Iain Sweetman
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mark Walters
- Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Unit, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giles W. Plant
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alan R. Harvey
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Cao J, Xiao Z, Jin W, Chen B, Meng D, Ding W, Han S, Hou X, Zhu T, Yuan B, Wang J, Liang W, Dai J. Induction of rat facial nerve regeneration by functional collagen scaffolds. Biomaterials 2012; 34:1302-10. [PMID: 23122676 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nerve conduit provides a promising strategy for nerve regeneration, and the proper microenvironment in the lumen could improve the regeneration. Our previous work had demonstrated that linear ordered collagen scaffold (LOCS) could effectively guide the oriented growth of axons. Laminin is known as an important nerve growth promoting factor and can facilitate the growth cone formation. In addition, ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can effectively improve the nerve regeneration after nerve injuries. However, in practice, diffusion caused by the body fluids is the major obstacle in their applications. To retain CNTF or BDNF on the scaffolds, we produced collagen binding CNTF (CBD-CNTF), collagen binding BDNF (CBD-BDNF) and laminin binding CNTF (LBD-CNTF), laminin binding BDNF (LBD-BDNF) respectively. In this work, we developed laminin modified LOCS fibers (L × LOCS) by chemical cross-linking LOCS fibers with laminin. Collagen binding or laminin binding neurotrophic factors were combined with LOCS or L × LOCS, and then filled them into the collagen nerve conduit. They were found to guide the ordered growth of axons, and improve the nerve functional recovery in the rat facial nerve transection model. The combination of CNTF and BDNF greatly enhanced the facial nerve regeneration and functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100190, China
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20
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Weishaupt N, Blesch A, Fouad K. BDNF: the career of a multifaceted neurotrophin in spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2012; 238:254-64. [PMID: 22982152 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2012.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Revised: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been identified as a potent promoter of neurite growth, a finding that has led to an ongoing exploration of this neurotrophin as a potential treatment for spinal cord injury. BDNF's many effects in the nervous system make it an excellent candidate for neuroprotective strategies as well as for promoting axonal regeneration, plasticity and re-myelination. In addition, neuronal activity and physical exercise can modulate the expression of BDNF, suggesting that non-invasive means to increase BDNF levels might exist. Nonetheless, depending on the location, amount and duration of BDNF delivery, this potent neurotrophin can also have adverse effects, such as modulation of nociceptive pathways or contribution to spasticity. Taken together, the benefits and possible risks require careful assessment when considering this multifaceted neurotrophin as a treatment option for spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Weishaupt
- Centre for Neuroscience, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
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Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) has multiple consequences, ranging from molecular imbalances to glial scar formation to functional impairments. It is logical to think that a combination of single treatments implemented in the right order and at the right time will be required to repair the spinal cord. However, the single treatments that compose the combination therapy will need to be chosen with caution as many have multiple outcomes that may or may not be synergistic. Single treatments may also elicit unwanted side-effects and/or effects that would decrease the repair potential of other components and/or the entire combination therapy. In this chapter a number of single treatments are discussed with respect to their multiplicity of action. These include strategies to boost growth and survival (such as neurotrophins and cyclic AMP) and strategies to reduce inhibitory factors (such as antimyelin-associated growth inhibitors and digestion of glial scar-associated inhibitors). We also present an overview of combination therapies that have successfully or unsuccessfully been tested in the laboratory using animal models. To effectively design a combination therapy a number of considerations need to be made such as the nature and timing of the treatments and the method for delivery. This chapter discusses these issues as well as considerations related to chronic SCI and the logistics of bringing combination therapies to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Oudega
- Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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22
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Wan L, Xia R, Ding W. Short-term low-frequency electrical stimulation enhanced remyelination of injured peripheral nerves by inducing the promyelination effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on Schwann cell polarization. J Neurosci Res 2011; 88:2578-87. [PMID: 20648648 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.22426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Electrical stimulation (ES) has been found to aid repair of nerve injuries and have been shown to increase and direct neurite outgrowth during stimulation. However, the effect of ES on peripheral remyelination after nerve damage has been investigated less well, and the mechanism underlying its action remains unclear. In the present study, the crush-injured sciatic nerves in rats were subjected to 1 hr of continuous ES (20 Hz, 100 microsec, 3 V). Electron microscopy and nerve morphometry were performed to investigate the extent of regenerated nerve myelination. The expression profiles of P0, Par-3, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the injuried sciatic nerves and in the dorsal root ganglion neuron/Schwann cell cocultures were examined by Western blotting. Par-3 localization in the sciatic nerves was determined by immunohistochemistry to demonstrate Schwann cell polarization during myelination. We reported that 20-Hz ES increased the number of myelinated fibers and the thickness myelin sheath at 4 and 8 weeks postinjury. P0 level in the ES-treated groups, both in vitro and in vivo, was enhanced compared with the controls. The earlier peak of Par-3 in the ES-treated groups indicated an earlier initiation of Schwann cell myelination. Additionally, ES significantly elevated BDNF expression in nerve tissues and in cocultures. ES on the site of nerve injury potentiates axonal regrowth and myelin maturation during peripheral nerve regeneration. Furthermore, the therapeutic actions of ES on myelination are mediated via enhanced BDNF signals, which drive the promyelination effect on Schwann cells at the onset of myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidan Wan
- Department of Anatomy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai,
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23
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Glazova M, Pak ES, Moretto J, Hollis S, Brewer KL, Murashov AK. Pre-differentiated embryonic stem cells promote neuronal regeneration by cross-coupling of BDNF and IL-6 signaling pathways in the host tissue. J Neurotrauma 2010; 26:1029-42. [PMID: 19138107 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2008.0785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of embryonic stem (ES) cell therapeutic action remains far from being elucidated. Our recent report has shown that transplantation of ES cells, predifferentiated into neuronal progenitors, prevented appearance of chronic pain behaviors in mice after experimentally induced spinal cord injury. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that this beneficial effect is mediated by antiapoptotic and regenerative signaling pathways activated in the host tissue by transplanted ES cells. Spinal cord injury was induced by unilateral microinjections of quisqualic acid at spinal levels T12-L2. At 1 week after injury, the pre-differentiated towards neuronal phenotype ES cells were transplanted into the site of injury. Here we show that transplantation of pre-differentiated ES cells activate both brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling pathways in the host tissue, leading to activation of cAMP/PKA, phosporylation of cofilin and synapsin I, and promoting regenerative growth and neuronal survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Glazova
- Department of Physiology, The Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27834, USA
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Bertelli JA, Ghizoni MF. The possible role of regenerating axons in pain persistence after brachial plexus grafting. Microsurgery 2010; 30:532-6. [DOI: 10.1002/micr.20788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Promoting oligodendrogenesis and myelin repair using the multiple sclerosis medication glatiramer acetate. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:17992-7. [PMID: 19815532 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0909607106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The formation of oligodendrocytes (oligodendrogenesis) and myelin is regulated by several neurotrophic factors. Strategies to increase the level of these trophic molecules may facilitate repair in demyelinating conditions, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Because leukocytes are a source of neurotrophic factors, and as glatiramer acetate (GA) generates T helper 2 (Th2) lymphocytes that are not known to be harmful, we tested the hypothesis that GA regulates oligodendrogenesis and myelin formation. First, we generated GA-reactive Th2 cells and determined that they produced transcripts for neurotrophic factors, including insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). The conditioned medium from GA-reactive T cells elevated IGF-1 protein and promoted the formation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) from embryonic brain-derived forebrain cells in culture. We next subjected mice to lysolecithin-induced demyelination of the spinal cord. At 7 days after the insult, the number of OPCs in the demyelinated dorsal column was higher than that in uninjured controls, and was further increased by the daily s.c. injection with GA. Increased OPC generation by GA was associated temporally with the elevation of IGF-1 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the spinal cord. Finally, the resultant remyelination at 28 days was higher in mice treated with GA during the first 7 days of injury compared with vehicle controls. These results indicate that GA promotes oligodendrogenesis and remyelination through mechanisms that involve the elevation of growth factors conducive for repair.
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