Controlling the Release of Neurotrophin-3 and Chondroitinase ABC Enhances the Efficacy of Nerve Guidance Conduits.

ABSTRACT: Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) have the potential to replace autografts in repairing peripheral nerve injuries, but their efficacy still needs to be improved. The efficacy of NGCs is augmented by neurotrophic factors that promote axon growth and by enzymes capable of degrading molecules that inhibit axon growth. In the current study, two types of NGCs loaded with factors (both neurotrophin-3 and chondroitinase ABC) are constructed and their abilities to repair an 8 mm gap in the rat sciatic nerve are examined. The factors are encapsulated in microparticles made of a phase-change material (PCM) or collagen and then sandwiched between two layers of electrospun fibers. The use of PCM allows to achieve pulsed release of the factors upon irradiation with a near-infrared laser. The use of collag

SUBMITTER: Donsante A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7751830 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature