title: Evaluation of two cross-linked collagen gels implanted in the transected spinal cord.
abstract: In previous experiments, we have shown that spinal axons grow into a collagen matrix implanted between the stumps of a transected spinal cord. However, the matrix became denatured after 2 to 3 months. To improve the stability and the durability of the collagen gel implants, collagen was coprecipitated with chondroitin-6-sulfate (C-6-S) or chemically cross-linked with carbodiimide (CD). The spinal cords were taken out after 3 days, 1, 3, or 6 months and analyzed using different histological and tracing techniques. The cross-linked collagen matrices underwent major structural changes. Cross-linking treatments improved the stability of collagen implants which withstood at least 6 months. Axons revealed with DiI or silver staining crossed the proximal interface and grew into the bioimplants. Some axons were also followed across the distal bioimplant-spinal interface in DiI treated tissues. This study suggests that cross-linking the collagen hydrogel has improved the mechanical properties of the matrix, modified the normal scarring process, and favored axonal regeneration.
authors.affiliation: Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie, Hôpital de l'Enfant-Jésus, Québec, Canada.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Marchand
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Woerly
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Bertrand
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Valdes
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001369:Axons / Q000502:physiology; D002234:Carbodiimides; D011232:Chemical Precipitation; D002809:Chondroitin Sulfates; D003094:Collagen; D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents; D005260:Female; D005782:Gels; D009416:Nerve Regeneration / Q000502:physiology; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology*
chemical_list: D002234:Carbodiimides; D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents; D005782:Gels; D002809:Chondroitin Sulfates; D003094:Collagen