We evaluated peripheral nerve regeneration using biodegradable genipin-cross-linked gelatin nerve conduits (GGCs) with three different cross-linking degrees, 24, 36 and 51%. Biocompatibility and biodegradability of the GGC and its efficiency as a guidance channel were examined based on the repair process of a 10-mm gap in the rat sciatic nerve. From this pilot study we concluded that GGCs with a mean cross-linking degree of 36% can ensure nerve regeneration with a more mature structure, as demonstrated by better developed epineural and perineural organisation and axonal development, as well as better-recovered electrophysiology with a relatively positive sciatic functional index and a shorter latency of the muscle action potential curve. Regenerated nerves in the GGCs with mean cross-linking degrees of 24 and 51% were less favourable, due to irritation caused by degradation material and compression by the remaining tube walls, respectively.

Recent advances in nerve repair technology have focused on finding more biocompatible, nontoxic materials to imitate natural peripheral nerve components. In this study, casein protein cross-linked with naturally occurring genipin (genipin-cross-linked casein (GCC)) was used for the first time to make a biodegradable conduit for peripheral nerve repair. The GCC conduit was dark blue in appearance with a concentric and round lumen. Water uptake, contact angle and mechanical tests indicated that the conduit had a high stability in water and did not collapse and cramped with a sufficiently high level of mechanical properties. Cytotoxic testing and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labelling assay showed that the GCC was non-toxic and non-apoptotic, which could maintain the survival and outgrowth of Schwann cells. Non-invasive real-time nuclear factor-kB bioluminescence imaging accompanied by histochemical assessment showed that the GCC was highly biocompatible after subcutaneous implantation in transgenic mice. Effectiveness of the GCC conduit as a guidance channel was examined as it was used to repair a 10 mm gap in the rat sciatic nerve. Electrophysiology, labelling of calcitonin gene-related peptide in the lumbar spinal cord, and histology analysis all showed a rapid morphological and functional recovery for the disrupted nerves. Therefore, we conclude that the GCC can offer great nerve regeneration characteristics and can be a promising material for the successful repair of peripheral nerve defects.

This study investigates the effect of puerarin (PR) on peripheral nerve regeneration in vitro and in vivo. PR at concentrations of 1, 10, and 100 μM significantly promoted survival and outgrowth of cultured Schwann cells, as compared to the controls treated with culture medium only. in vivo study, peripheral nerve regeneration was evaluated across a 15-mm gap in the sciatic nerve of rats using a silicone rubber nerve chamber filled with PR solution. The control group chambers were filled with normal saline only. At the end of eight weeks, animals in the PR groups, especially at a concentration of 1 μM, had a significantly higher density of myelinated axons, greater evoked action potential area, and a larger nerve conductive velocity, as compared to the controls. All experimental results indicate that PR treatment promotes nerve growth and is a promising herbal medicine for recovery of regenerating peripheral nerves.