Fabrication Of Tissue Engineering Artificial Nerve From Human Embryonic Schwann Cells

Nerve injury is a difficult clinical problem to reconstructive surgery. Currently nerve autograft is still the main method to bridge neural defects in clinic. Because of the inherent shortcomings associated with the use of autografts,investigations have been focus on alternative materials for the bridging of neural defects. The purpose of this study was to design an tissue engineering artificial nerve which could be effectively used to repair peripheral nerve defects in clinic.Firstly, an effective technique for culture and expansion of human embryonic Schwann cells is presented. Human embryonic Schwann cells can be separated and purified through repeated explanation and differential adhesion methods,and they can be propagated in vitro as the source of seed cells.Secondly, to investigate the effect of FK506 on Human embryonic Schwann cell migration in vitro. and restain the growth of fibroblast. This effect of FK506 is evident in low dose level.Thirdly, a biodegradable tissue engineering artificial nerve was fabricated according the macroarchitecture of native peripheral nerves. The neural regeneration conduit was comprised with PLGA conduits and polyglactin 910 fibers. The inner membrane of PLGA conduits and polyglactin 910 fibers were loaded with human embryonic Schwann cells.At last, regeneration of artifical nerves was evaluated. Nerve-defect models were set up in SD rats.Artificial nerves and autologous nerves were used to repair sciatic nerve defects 20mm in length. Regeneration outcome of artificial nerves was approximate to that of autologous nerves.