Methylcobalamin‐Loaded PLCL Conduits Facilitate the Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

Abstract

The feasible fabrication of nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) with good biological performance is important for translation in clinics. In this study, poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐caprolactone) (PLCL) films loaded with various amounts (wt; 5%, 15%, 25%) of methylcobalamin (MeCbl) are prepared, and are further rolled and sutured to obtain MeCbl‐loaded NGCs. The MeCbl can be released in a sustainable manner up to 21 days. The proliferation and elongation of Schwann cells, and the proliferation of Neuro2a cells are enhanced on these MeCbl‐loaded films. The MeCbl‐loaded NGCs are implanted into rats to induce the regeneration of 10 mm amputated sciatic nerve defects, showing the ability to facilitate the recovery of motor and sensory function, and to promote myelination in peripheral nerve regeneration. In particular, the 15% MeCbl‐loaded PLCL conduit exhibits the most satisfactory recovery of sciatic nerves in rats with the largest diameter and thickest myelinated fibers.

Micropatterned Poly(D,L-Lactide-Co-Caprolactone) Conduits With KHI-Peptide and NGF Promote Peripheral Nerve Repair After Severe Traction Injury

“…Inspired by the highly aligned microstructure of native nerve fibers, organized topographical guidance and bioactive molecules have been introduced to the inner wall of various types of NGCs to enhance their nerve regeneration ( Huang et al, 2020 ). Linear micropatterns can induce the elongation of SC and nerite orientation of dorsal root ganglion ( Zhang et al, 2020a ). Therefore, in this study the linear micropatterns were created firstly on the PLCL film by using a stamp made from PDMS, which has very low surface energy for anti-adhesion.…”

“…Besides, Zhang et al (2018b) found that SCs cultured on 20/40 μm polyester migrate along the stripes, with a higher ratio of L/W compared to those on the flat film. Furthermore, the migration rate of SCs was also increased significantly when being cultured on the 3/3-μm parallel stripe PLCL, which may promote the M2 polarization of macrophage ( Zhang et al, 2020a ). In this study, the microstructures of parallel grooves and ridges were created on the surface of the PLCL film, which could similarly guide the direction of SCs and enhance the ability of migration even though the macroprous structure was further implemented.…”

“…The NGCs were obtained in situ by sewing with 8–0 nylon monofilament suture stitches, where the injured nerve was ensured to locate at the middle of NGCs. The length of the NGCs was 12 mm, and the inner diameter and wall thickness were 1.5 and 0.2 mm, respectively ( Zhang et al, 2020a ). The groups were repaired with PLCL film (PLCL group), parallelly linear micropatterned PLCL film (MPLCL group), micropatterned PLCL film with KHI peptides modification (MPLCL-peptide group), and micropatterned PLCL film grafted with KHI peptides and loaded with NGF (MPLCL-peptide-NGF group), respectively.…”

“…The nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) have shown great promise in the regeneration and functional recovery of peripheral nerves ( Zhang et al, 2020a ). However, NGCs are rarely used for the nerve traction injury repair, and the underlying impact needs to be elucidated.…”

Brachial plexus injury after clavicle fracture operation: a case report and literature review

“…Methylcobalamin and electrical stimulation are commonly used methods in clinic and basic research area, which plays an important role in the treatment of nerve injury and degeneration. Zhang demonstrate that methylcobalamin has the ability to facilitate the recovery of motor and sensory function, and to promote myelination in peripheral nerve regeneration [ 16 ]. Willand think the imminent clinical applicability of acute brief low-frequency electrical stimulation effectively promote axonal regeneration and maximize functional recovery in diverse types of peripheral nerve injuries [ 17 ].…”