A novel approach to align adult neural stem cells on micropatterned conduits for peripheral nerve regeneration: A feasibility study
Journal
Artificial Organs
Journal Volume
33
Journal Issue
1
Pages
26-35
Date Issued
2009
Author(s)
Abstract
There is a strong need for nerve-tissue engineering using the guide conduit and Schwann cells or neural stem cells (NSCs) with regeneration potential for injured peripheral nerves. In this study, micropatterned poly(D,L-lactide) (PLA) conduits were fabricated by microlithography and solvent-casting. The PLA conduits were seeded with the novel green fluorescent protein (GFP)-positive adult mouse NSCs obtained using the patented method of one of the authors. About 85% of the seeded NSCs were successfully aligned on the micropatterned conduits within 72 h and expressed the genes related to the production of neurotrophic factors. Gene expressions for the neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor were upregulated by the micropatterned conduits at 72 h. The micropatterned PLA conduits seeded with the aligned NSCs were used to bridge the 10-mm sciatic nerve gaps in rats and were found to facilitate nerve repair and functional recovery during a period of 6 weeks compared with the nonseeded group. This model can be used to study the role of adult NSCs in peripheral-nerve regeneration in the future.
Type
journal article