TY - JOUR TI - In vivo evaluation of nerve guidance conduits comprised of a salicylic acid-based poly(anhydride-ester) blend DO - https://doi.org/doi:10.7282/T3ZP44WH PY - 2012 AB - Unlike the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system can regenerate from injury. However, without surgical intervention, the results are often poor. Autologous nerve grafting is the golden standard for repairing peripheral nerve injury; but limited donor availability and donor site morbidity led researchers to seek alternative methods. Among the many alternative treatment options, synthetic nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) have been most actively developed. The goal of NGCs is to serve as a physical scaffold that aids the axonal regeneration process while preventing scar tissue formation that interferes with regeneration. Biocompatible and biodegradable NGCs would provide additional benefits: minimize foreign body reaction and avoid secondary surgeries to remove NGCs. We developed a unique NGC that incorporated the characteristics described above and can release an anti-inflammatory drug, salicylic acid. In this work, in vivo assays were performed to evaluate NGCs fabricated from a poly(anhydride-ester) blend. To further assist in the regeneration process, bovine native collagen type I hydrogel were inserted into the NGCs lumen which was then implanted in femoral nerve of mice for up to 16 weeks. These studies demonstrated in vivo biodegradability, biocompatibility, and axonal regeneration following an injury to the peripheral nerve. These studies provide greater insights into the importance of designing NGCs and how they aid in regeneration and functional recovery of subjects. KW - Biomedical Engineering KW - Neural circuitry KW - Nerves, Peripheral LA - eng ER -