سامانه همایش های دانشگاه آزاد اسلامی واحد نجف آباد

صفحه اصلی / اولین همایش بین المللی تحول خدمات سلامت: تلفیق مراقبت، درمان، بازتوانی و امیدبخشی

Natural and Synthetic Hydrogels for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

نویسندگان :

Malihe Jahromi¹

1- Clinical Research Development Center, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran

کلمات کلیدی :

Peripheral nerve injury،hydrogels،nerve regeneration،biomaterials،Schwann cells،tissue engineering

چکیده :

Background Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) remains a major clinical challenge because spontaneous recovery is often incomplete, especially in large-gap defects. Although autografting is considered the gold standard, its use is limited by donor site morbidity and restricted graft availability. Hydrogels have emerged as promising biomaterials for peripheral nerve regeneration because they can mimic the extracellular matrix, provide a three-dimensional supportive microenvironment, and serve as carriers for cells and bioactive factors [1,2]. Natural hydrogels such as collagen, chitosan, gelatin, alginate, and hyaluronic acid offer excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, while synthetic hydrogels provide tunable mechanical properties and controlled degradation [1,3]. Recent evidence suggests that hydrogel-based strategies may improve axonal growth, Schwann cell migration, remyelination, and functional recovery [2,4]. Method This narrative review summarizes recent studies on natural and synthetic hydrogels in peripheral nerve repair. The literature was analyzed with emphasis on biomaterial design, scaffold architecture, cellular interactions, and hydrogel-based delivery of therapeutic agents. Evidence from experimental and translational studies was reviewed to identify current advances and remaining limitations [1,4,5]. Finding The reviewed studies indicate that hydrogel scaffolds can effectively support nerve regeneration by reproducing key features of the native extracellular matrix and guiding axonal extension across nerve gaps [1,2]. Natural hydrogels promote cell adhesion, migration, and biological integration, whereas synthetic hydrogels allow more precise control over stiffness, porosity, and degradation kinetics [1,3]. Composite hydrogels may combine the advantages of both systems and demonstrate superior regenerative performance [4]. In addition, hydrogels loaded with Schwann cells, stem cells, neurotrophic factors, or pharmacological agents have shown enhanced functional outcomes in preclinical models [2,5]. However, challenges remain regarding mechanical optimization, sustained release of bioactive molecules, and clinical translation [1,4]. Conclusion Natural and synthetic hydrogels represent a promising platform for peripheral nerve repair. Their structural support, biological compatibility, and drug-delivery capacity make them strong candidates for future regenerative therapies. Further preclinical refinement and clinical studies are needed to confirm safety, efficacy, and long-term functional benefit [1,4,5]. Keywords Peripheral nerve injury, hydrogels, nerve regeneration, biomaterials, Schwann cells, tissue engineering