Synergistic effects of artificial nerve conduit transplantation and therapeutic ultrasound on peripheral nerve injury

2020 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K19793
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 59010:Rehabilitation science-related
• Research Institution: Kyoto University
• Principal Investigator: ITO Akira 京都大学, 医学研究科, 助教 (50762134)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-04-01 – 2021-03-31
• Keywords: 超音波 / 物理療法 / 理学療法 / 末梢神経損傷 / リハビリテーション

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In order to improve artificial nerve conduits to promote peripheral nerve regeneration, we attempted to create a nerve conduit using a three-dimensional bioprinter. Using bioink containing alginate and nanocellulose and gelatin methacrylate, we were able to form a cylindrical shape with an inner diameter of 2.5 mm. The cell viability of the sculpted nerve conduits was checked, and the viability decreased to about 50% until 3 days after incubation, after which a recovery trend was observed.
Next, we examined the changes in the expression of neurotrophic factors by ultrasound stimulation. As a result, it was suggested that increased expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor was involved as one of the mechanisms of action of ultrasound therapy in peripheral nerve regeneration.

Free Research Field

理学療法学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究では、三次元バイオプリンターを用いた細胞含有神経導管の作成に成功した。これは末梢神経再生医療の発展における基盤となる成果となる。また、超音波治療による末梢神経再生に寄与する作用メカニズムとして、脳由来神経栄養因子の発現上昇の関与を示唆し、さらにその経時的変化を明らかにした。この成果は、超音波治療の開始時期や継続期間の設定におけるエビデンスを提供する。