The Efficient Regeneration of Corneal Nerves via Tunable Transmembrane Signaling Channels Using a Transparent Graphene‐Based Corneal Stimulation Electrode

Abstract

The efficient regeneration of corneal nerves is of limited success in the field of ophthalmology. This work reports the use of a non-invasive electrical stimulation technique that uses a transparent graphene-based corneal stimulation electrode and that can achieve efficient regeneration of corneal nerves. The corneal stimulation electrode is prepared using electroactive nitrogen-containing conducting polymers such as polyaniline functionalized graphene (PAG). This composite can carry a high capacitive current. It can be used to tune transmembrane signaling pathways including calcium channels and the MAPK signaling pathway. Tuning can lead to the efficient regeneration of corneal damaged nerves after the surgery of laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK). The composite and its application reported have the potential to provide a new way to treat nerve-related injuries.

Applications of Graphene in Five Senses, Nervous System, and Artificial Muscles

“…177 Indeed, retinal ganglion cells demonstrate neurite formation and antiaging performances. Shi, Chen, and Liu et al mixed a polyaniline/graphene composite for corneal stimulation electrode, 178 which promotes the regeneration of corneal nerves. The transmembrane signaling pathways can be regulated for amending the corneal injures in the means of signaling pathway of mitogen-activated protein kinase as well as tuning of calcium channels.…”

Exploring the Physicochemical, Electroactive, and Biodelivery Properties of Metal Nanoparticles on Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

“…Although the understanding of the mechanism of electrical signals on nerve cells is still unclear, it has been confirmed that electrical activity plays a role in cell cycles, proliferation, and migration through signaling pathways (especially the Ca 2+ and MAPK/ERK pathway) induced by ion channels. 211 Therefore, the PN regeneration through the synergy of scaffolds, metal NPs, and cells with a high ability to accept electrical signals caused by increasing the ion current on the surface will be a powerful tool in repairing nerve damage and transmitting electrical messages between tissue and nerves.…”

“…In the normal condition, the inside nerve, transverse and longitudinal endoneurium, and epineurium have electrical conductivity of 9.1, 8.3, 57.1, and 15.9 (S/cm), respectively. , Hence, the neural grafts production without considering this electrical conductivity in regeneration activities will fail. Although the understanding of the mechanism of electrical signals on nerve cells is still unclear, it has been confirmed that electrical activity plays a role in cell cycles, proliferation, and migration through signaling pathways (especially the Ca 2+ and MAPK/ERK pathway) induced by ion channels . Therefore, the PN regeneration through the synergy of scaffolds, metal NPs, and cells with a high ability to accept electrical signals caused by increasing the ion current on the surface will be a powerful tool in repairing nerve damage and transmitting electrical messages between tissue and nerves.…”

Endogenous Electric Field‐Coupled PD@BP Biomimetic Periosteum Promotes Bone Regeneration through Sensory Nerve via Fanconi Anemia Signaling Pathway

“…Thus, applying an appropriate electric field may be beneficial for cell physiology. [ 34 ] Tumor tissues generate endogenous electric fields in local proliferative areas to stimulate regeneration. Furthermore, local tissue fluid extravasation occurs after tissue injury, leading to changes in local chemical signals.…”