Nano-Engineered Environment for Nerve Regeneration: Scaffolds, Functional Molecules and Stem Cells

Curr Stem Cell Res Ther. 2016;11(8):605-617. doi: 10.2174/1574888x10666151001114735.

Abstract

One of the most complex systems in the human body is the nervous system, which is divided into the central and peripheral nervous systems. The regeneration of the CNS is a complex and challenging biological phenomenon hindered by the low regenerative capacity of neurons and the prohibition factors in response to nerve injuries. To date, no effective approach can achieve complete recovery and fully restore the functions of the nervous system once it has been damaged. Developments in neuroscience have identified properties of the local environment with a critical role in nerve regeneration. Advances in biomaterials and biomedical engineering have explored new approaches of constructing permissive environments for nerve regeneration, thereby enabling optimism with regard to nerve-injury treatment. This article reviews recent progress in nanoengineered environments for aiding nerveinjury repair and regeneration, including nanofibrous scaffolds, functional molecules, and stem cells.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biocompatible Materials / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Nanotechnology / methods*
  • Nerve Regeneration* / drug effects
  • Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Stem Cells / drug effects
  • Tissue Engineering / methods*
  • Tissue Scaffolds / chemistry*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials