INEB RECENT PUBLICATIONS: "Poly(Trimethylene Carbonate-co-ε-Caprolactone) Promotes Axonal Growth"

INEB researchers recently published an article in PLos ONE. The article is available since 27 of February 2014.

Title: "Poly(Trimethylene Carbonate-co-ε-Caprolactone) Promotes Axonal Growth"
Authors: Daniela Nogueira Rocha, Pedro Brites, Carlos Fonseca, Ana Paula Pêgo

Short Description:
This work, which started in the frame work of the European project NERBIOS, aimed at assessing the suitability of three candidate polymers – poly(ε-caprolactone), poly(trimethylene carbonate-co-ε-caprolactone) (P(TMC-CL)) and poly(trimethylene carbonate) - with the final goal of using these materials in the development of conduits to promote spinal cord regeneration. Neuronal polarization and axonal elongation was significantly higher on P(TMC-CL) films. Furthermore, cortical neurons cultured on P(TMC-CL) were able to extend neurites even when seeded onto myelin. This effect was found to be mediated by the glycogen synthase kinase 3b (GSK3β) signaling pathway with impact on the collapsin response mediator protein 4 (CRMP4), suggesting that besides surface topography, nanomechanical properties were implicated in this process. The obtained results indicate P(TMC-CL) as a promising material for CNS regenerative applications as it promotes axonal growth, overcoming myelin inhibition.

FULL ARTICLE: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0088593