The Efficacy of Multi-Domain Peptides in Electrospun Conduits For Regenerating Transected Sciatic Nerves

Transected peripheral nerve injury (PNI) causes loss of sensory and motor functions in patients, resulting in restricted daily activities and poor quality of life. Despite the use of autografts and commercial nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) in treating PNI, their limitations give rise to further research in bioengineered, artificial NGCs. Previously, cationic multi-domain peptide (MDP) hydrogels have accelerated nerve regeneration in rat crushed injury models, as demonstrated by higher sciatic function indices and degrees of myelination in experimental groups. To study their neuroregenerative capabilities, cationic and anionic MDP hydrogels were loaded in poly(caprolactone) conduits to bridge 10 mm sciatic nerve defects. Different rates of axonal outgrowth were observed between MDPs-treated groups after 3 weeks. For 16 weeks implantation, anionic MDP groups showed earlier occurrence of flexion contractures, greater amplitude of compound muscle action potentials, and higher axonal density/ myelination percentage. These results indicate better nerve recovery and potential application of anionic MDPs in the clinical settings, which may lead to more effective NGC systems when combined with other bioactive modifications.