Nerve Repair: Molecular and Cellular Events, Tissue Engineering Approaches, and Translational Issues of Reconstruction

Objective: (1) To introduce some key molecular players for the orchestration of repair processes of peripheral and cranial nerves. (2) To relate own experimental experiences in peripheral nerve repair to the conditions after cranial nerve injury and repair. (3) To give an outlook on current novelties in peripheral nerve reconstruction and their potential translation to cranial nerve reconstruction approaches.

Methods: Own data originating from the rodent sciatic nerve injury and repair model (functional and histomorphometrically analyzed) will be presented and put into context with literature data resulting from the rat facial nerve injury and repair model and molecular studies on cranial and peripheral nerve regeneration.

Conclusion: This paper is meant to inspire and to initiate future discussion and studies translating the findings from peripheral nerve repair to the cranial nerves. Therapeutic approaches with potential from peripheral to cranial nerves cover not only direct repair strategies (e.g., bioartificial nerve grafts) but also adjunct approaches such as gene therapy or electrical stimulation.