Behavioral evaluation of regenerated rat sciatic nerve by a nanofibrous PHBV conduit filled with Schwann cell as artificial nerve graft

Recent evidence suggests that the implantation of artificial conduits improves peripheral nerve regeneration. We have developed an electrospun biodegradable poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) nerve conduit filled with allogeneic Schwann cells (SCs). The nanofibrous conduits were investigated by physical، mechanical and microscopic analyses. The nerve conduits with and without Schwann cells were implanted into a 30-mm in sciatic defect of rats. All groups were monitored and investigated their functional and locomotion activities by behavioral analyses: Toe out angle (TOA)، Toe spreading analysis، and Nociceptive function (WRL)، monthly through four months post surgery. Results of physical and mechanical and microscopic analyses showed suitable properties of designed conduits to serve as a nerve guide، also Schwann cells well attached on nanofibrous surfaces of designed conduits. Four months post-operatively، the results from behavioral analyses were demonstrated that، in the grafted groups especially conduits filled with Schwann cells، the rat sciatic nerve trunk had been reconstructed with functional recovery such walking، swimming and recovery of nociceptive function. Discussion & This study proves the feasibility of the artificial nerve conduit filled with Schwann cells for peripheral nerve regeneration by bridging a longer defect in an animal model.