A team of researchers from the First Moscow State Medical University named after IM. Sechenov, together with the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation and the Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, has proposed a method for repairing damaged nerves using small conduit-like devices. These conduits are filled with nylon nanofibers. When positioned on opposite sides of a severed nerve, the ends grow toward each other and become effectively connected, guiding regeneration along a preferred path. This approach was shared with socialbites.ca by Sechenov University representatives.
Presently, Russia lacks domestic implants for peripheral nerve restoration, and international options are often costly and not as effective. A notable advantage of the newly developed implant is its use of nylon nanofibers within its design, creating a unique solution that has not been replicated elsewhere. Nylon is a polymer well known in medicine for its biocompatibility and low toxicity, and it is widely used as suture material in soft-tissue surgery. The nylon-filled channel acts as a supportive scaffold that encourages nerve cells to grow actively. It also demonstrates excellent stability during storage, remains non-toxic, and resists degradation long enough to support the regeneration window required by nerve tissue regeneration, according to Igor Kanev, a senior researcher at the ITEB RAS Laboratory of Theranostics and Nuclear Medicine.
Nerve injuries are common and can result from falls, complications during surgery, cancer resections, or neurodegenerative diseases. The consequence is often impaired motor or sensory function, which can significantly affect daily life. When the gap between nerve ends exceeds about 10 millimeters, natural regeneration tends to fail, making surgical intervention necessary. In such cases, doctors may perform autologous nerve grafting, using the patient’s own nerves transferred from another part of the body to bridge the gap.
Even with advances in microsurgical techniques, complete restoration of nerve function after injury remains elusive. In some severe cases, finding a suitable donor nerve for grafting can be challenging. The materials and internal structure of the new implant are designed to direct the growth of axons with precision and to create a protective microenvironment that supports regeneration, according to Mark Gabriyanchik of Levshin Sechenov University. This strategy aims to overcome the limitations of current grafting methods and to enhance functional recovery after nerve damage.
At present, researchers are advancing talks with industrial partners and are preparing to establish a joint laboratory at Sechenov University. The team remains hopeful that their implant will redefine the approach to neuroreconstruction and help patients recover following various nerve injuries. The project underscores a broader commitment to improving nerve repair options and highlights the potential for translating laboratory findings into practical medical solutions.
Earlier reports noted the institution’s broader work, including the development of cutting edge AI assisted medical devices at Sechenov University, such as blood glucose monitoring technologies. These efforts illustrate a wider program of biomedical innovation emerging from the institution and its collaborators.