Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have developed the first injectable microtissue containing nerve cells to accelerate neuromuscular recovery from peripheral nerve injury. The research was published in the journal Bioactive Materials.
The tissue developed by scientists consists of nerve cells encapsulated in a protective hydrogel. This drug was injected into the muscles of mice whose sciatic nerve was severed. This made it possible to increase the number of restored connections between muscles and nerves.
Scientists noted that hundreds of thousands of patients undergo nerve repair surgery each year. But even with perfect surgery, doctors can’t get nerves to regenerate faster than about an inch a month. Nerve injuries in the shoulder or hip can take years to heal.
For example, patients with brachial plexus injuries may regain elbow function, but will most likely never regain hand function. In these cases, the neurosurgeon will typically cut a healthy nerve near the arm and direct the damaged nerve to take over its function. The researchers suggest that their development would allow them to be done in such cases without damaging the patient’s healthy nerve.