Abstract
Objective:
Our goal is to develop a novel method to repair damaged axons. This method relies on acutely restoring axonal continuity rather than the traditional approach of promoting axonal regeneration.
Methods:
Micro- and nanoechnological methods, in combination with focal application of electrical fields, are applied to individual and groups of axons both in vitro and in vivo.
Results:
Application of these techniques has permitted micromanipulation of axons at the cellular level and fusion of axonal membranes.
Conclusion:
Although a great deal more work is necessary, our findings suggest that it may one day be possible to repair acutely disrupted axons by splicing their membranes back together.
MeSH terms
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Axons / physiology
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Axons / radiation effects
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Axons / ultrastructure
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Cell Membrane / physiology
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Cell Membrane / ultrastructure
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Electric Stimulation Therapy / methods
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Electromagnetic Fields
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Humans
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Microsurgery / methods
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Nanotechnology / methods
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Nanotechnology / trends
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Nerve Regeneration / physiology*
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Nerve Regeneration / radiation effects
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Neurosurgical Procedures / methods*
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Peripheral Nerves / pathology
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Peripheral Nerves / physiopathology
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Peripheral Nerves / surgery*
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Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / pathology
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Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / physiopathology
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Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / surgery*
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Recovery of Function / physiology
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Recovery of Function / radiation effects