Signaling cue presentation and cell delivery to promote nerve regeneration

Limitations in current nerve regeneration techniques have stimulated the development of various approaches to mimic the extrinsic cues available in the natural nerve regeneration environment. Biomaterials approaches modulate the microenvironment of a regenerating nerve through tailored presentation of signaling molecules, creating physical and biochemical guidance cues to direct axonal regrowth across nerve lesion sites. Cell-based approaches center on increasing the neurotrophic support, adhesion guidance and myelination capacity of Schwann cells and other alternative cell types to enhance nerve regrowth and functional recovery. Recent advances in presenting directional guidance cues in nerve guidance conduits and improving the regenerative outcomes of cell delivery provide inspirations to engineering the next generation of nerve repair solutions.

► Highlights the latest biomaterials and cell-based nerve regeneration approaches. ► Focuses on optimizing nerve regeneration efficacy of signaling cue presentation. ► Describes use of functionalized Schwann cells and alternative cell sources. ► Synergistic potential of combining signaling cues and cell-based approaches.