A novel nerve guidance conduit with sustained release of NGF enhances sciatic nerve regeneration

Based on diffusion of nerve growth factor (NGF) from degradable material, a novel nerve guidance conduit (NGC) with sustained NGF release was prepared by embedding NGF into a degradable RGD-modified composite which has good cell affinity and biocompatibility. In vitro, the NGF release was quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method, and the bioactivity of released NGF was examined by PC-12 cell bioassay. In vivo, the performance of the NGF-containing conduit was examined using rat sciatic nerve defect model. The experimental results show that the NGF release process is prolonged over 30 days, and at least some degree of NGF bioactivity is preserved after the fabrication process. Due to the promoting effect of bioactive released NGF on nerve regeneration, the performance of NGC for nerve repair is improved significantly. The results of this study indicate that the sustained NGF release system is suitable for peripheral nerve repair.