Influence of cross-linking degree of a biodegradable genipin-cross-linked gelatin guide on peripheral nerve regeneration.
We evaluated peripheral nerve regeneration using biodegradable genipin-cross-linked gelatin nerve conduits (GGCs) with three different cross-linking degrees, 24, 36 and 51%. Biocompatibility and biodegradability of the GGC and its efficiency as a guidance channel were examined based on the repair process of a 10-mm gap in the rat sciatic nerve. From this pilot study we concluded that GGCs with a mean cross-linking degree of 36% can ensure nerve regeneration with a more mature structure, as demonstrated by better developed epineural and perineural organisation and axonal development, as well as better-recovered electrophysiology with a relatively positive sciatic functional index and a shorter latency of the muscle action potential curve. Regenerated nerves in the GGCs with mean cross-linking degrees of 24 and 51% were less favourable, due to irritation caused by degradation material and compression by the remaining tube walls, respectively.
Lu
Ming-Chin
MC
School of Post-Baccalaureat Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
Hsiang
Shih-Wei
SW
Lai
Tung-Yuan
TY
Yao
Chun-Hsu
CH
Lin
Li-Yu
LY
Chen
Yueh-Sheng
YS
D000818:Animals; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*; D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*; D004594:Electrophysiology; D005780:Gelatin / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*; D057889:Iridoid Glycosides; D039823:Iridoids / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008422:Materials Testing; D009416:Nerve Regeneration; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley; D012584:Sciatic Nerve / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000293:injuries*
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents; D057889:Iridoid Glycosides; D039823:Iridoids; D005780:Gelatin; C007834:genipin