Work

Investigation of Structural Preservation of Peripheral Nerve Extracellular Matrix Following Ex Vivo Limb Perfusion

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) represent a significant clinical challenge, frequently resulting in permanent sensory and motor defects. Traumatic injuries can severely alter the peripheral nerve’s extracellular matrix (ECM), which is fundamental in guiding Schwann cell (SC) and neuronal responses during regeneration. Given its importance, there is growing interest in understanding how traumatic injuries (amputations) and post-lesion treatments, such as ex vivo perfusion, affect ECM structure and composition. The study aims to evaluate ECM integrity following traumatic injury of peripheral nerves and post-lesion treatment. Amputated porcine limbs were perfused ex vivo with Perfadex® solution for 6 h, after which tibial and common fibular nerves were harvested. ECM components were analyzed using histological stainings: Wallart and Houette’s Trichrome for collagen, Verhoeff’s Van Gieson for elastin, and Alcian blue for glycosaminoglycans. Laminin and fibronectin distribution were assessed by immunofluorescence and ultrastructural features were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This work is expected to provide insights into ECM remodeling after peripheral nerve trauma and to clarify whether ex vivo perfusion contributes to preserving its structural and molecular organization. Such knowledge may support the development of improved strategies for peripheral nerve repair.

Source: European Journal of Histochemistry

DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2025.4500

Author: Biological Sciences

Institutions: Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin

Language: English

Topic: Nerve injury and regeneration

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,024