Central Nervous System Regeneration

At present clinical treatment of central nervous system (CNS) damage is associated with a poor prognosis. Recently published research findings have indicated that a degree of sensory and motor function can be restored with the introduction of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) at the site of injury. Therefore, the University of Nottingham Tissue Engineering Group has chosen to focus CNS repair systems utilising OECs.

In order to facilitate the development of such repair devices the group has collaborated with Geoff Raisman at the National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), a pioneer in the use of OECs for corticospinal tract repair. The requirement for a suitable vehicle to facilitate the introduction of these cells within a spatially defined organisation is of particular interest. In order to address this, novel hydrogels are currently being developed.

Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

Current surgical techniques employed to repair transected peripheral nerves are primarily based on suturing non-uniting ends. However, if the trauma is over an extended region of the nerve this technique is impractical and the prognosis is poor. Improved nerve regeneration is facilitated by the use of conduits. These both guide the direction of nerve regeneration and exclude the ingrowth of granulation tissue. The conduits used in neurosurgery at present are essentially simple tubes.

We aim to design and develop a tissue-engineered device to aid nervous tissue regeneration, using a multidisciplinary approach. This involves drawing from existing technologies and expertise within the School of Pharmacy including, synthesis of novel biodegradable polymers, controlled release of pharmaceutical agents from biodegradable polymers, and micro-patterning polymer surfaces with extracellular matrix proteins or peptides, hence defining cell adhesion, spreading, and axonal outgrowth.

Neuronal regeneration within such conduit devices, that include a cellular component e.g. Schwann, are currently being investigated (picture). Such devices may not only improve peripheral nerve regeneration but may also enable integration with the central nervous system.