Nerve growth factor enhances nerve regeneration through fibronectin grafts.
Soluble fibronectin and nerve growth factor (NGF) promote axonal regeneration when placed in silicone tubes. We investigated the ability of orientated fibronectin mats to bind and release bioactive NGF and the possibility of augmenting axonal regeneration following axotomy by using fibronectin conduits impregnated with NGF. The release of NGF was quantified using a fluorometric ELISA and bioactivity confirmed with a neuronal culture bioassay. Immunohistochemical techniques and computerized image analysis were used to assess the rate and volume of axonal and Schwann cell regeneration. The delivery of NGF to the site of injury produced an increase in the rate (P < or = 0.007) and volume (P < or = 0.004) of both axonal and Schwann cell regeneration when compared to conduits of plain fibronectin. We conclude that the local delivery of NGF by impregnated fibronectin conduits enhances axonal regeneration.
Whitworth
I H
IH
Blond McIndoe Centre, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, UK.
Brown
R A
RA
Doré
C J
CJ
Anand
P
P
Green
C J
CJ
Terenghi
G
G
D000818:Animals; D001369:Axons / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D015740:Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide / Q000032:analysis; D002642:Chick Embryo; D046508:Culture Techniques; D004343:Drug Implants; D005353:Fibronectins; D005727:Ganglia, Spinal / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D007124:Immunoenzyme Techniques; D009413:Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D009414:Nerve Growth Factors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D009416:Nerve Regeneration / Q000187:drug effects*; D051381:Rats; D011917:Rats, Inbred Lew; D012583:Schwann Cells / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D012584:Sciatic Nerve / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology
D004343:Drug Implants; D005353:Fibronectins; D009414:Nerve Growth Factors; D015740:Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide