Researchers from the University of Connecticut have shown that graphene nanoplates implanted into muscles can improve muscle regeneration after injury and slow the replacement of functional tissue with fat. Article published in the journal PNAS.
Scientists have developed an electrically conductive matrix based on graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) embedded in poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibers. They were implanted in laboratory mice with rotator cuff injuries. Histological evaluation demonstrated the ability of the GnP matrix to reverse muscle atrophy, fat deposition, and fibrosis in both the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles at 24 and 32 weeks after implantation. At the same time, the formation of microtubules increased significantly, which may be associated with an increase in the level of intracellular calcium ions in myoblasts.
The matrix showed high biocompatibility, and in dissection of the animals, the researchers found that eliminating degenerative changes in the muscles improved the morphology and stretching ability of the tendons. The new method has proven to be more effective than surgery and may help people with rotator cuff injuries avoid joint replacement.
Large ruptures of the rotator cuff of the shoulder lead to disability and the development of chronic pain. Currently, patients with rotator cuff tears are at risk for re-injury due to muscle atrophy, fat deposition, and fibrosis in damaged tissues.
Source: Gazeta
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