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Histological and electrophysiological analysis of the peripheral nerve allografts using an immunosuppressive agent
Author(s) -
Okajima Seiichiro,
Hojo Tatsuya,
Tamai Kazuo,
Takai Shinro,
Hirasawa Yasusuke
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
microscopy research and technique
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.536
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 1097-0029
pISSN - 1059-910X
DOI - 10.1002/jemt.10117
Subject(s) - sciatic nerve , medicine , electrophysiology , peripheral nerve , peripheral , regeneration (biology) , systemic administration , infiltration (hvac) , pathology , immunosuppression , anesthesia , anatomy , immunology , biology , in vivo , physics , microbiology and biotechnology , thermodynamics
In peripheral nerve allografts, use of an immunosuppressive agent is one of the ways of reducing nerve rejection. FK506 is a newly discovered substance, extracted from Streptomyces tsukubaensis , and has strong immunosuppressive effects. In the present study, immunosuppressive effects of FK 506 were examined using allografts of rat sciatic nerves. Good nerve regeneration was demonstrated through 12 weeks in this model. The immunosuppressed group gained weight over the course of the experiment. Another study was performed to observe the histological changes caused by ceasing the administration of FK506. Administration of FK506 was terminated 12 weeks after grafting. At 8 weeks after cessation, cellular infiltration and large unmyelinated axons were observed in the extended subperineurial space of grafts. At 12 weeks, histological characteristics of rejection were not observed. In the electrophysiological study, the temporal dispersions were recorded at 4 and 8 weeks. However, the normal electrophysiological waves were recorded at 12 weeks after cessation. It was concluded that FK506 is effective for preventing rejection of nerve allografts without any serious side effects on rats, and findings of total rejection of grafts were not recognized after ceasing the administration of FK 506. In peripheral nerve allografts, short‐term administration of an immunosuppressive agent is sufficient to lead to good nerve regeneration. Microsc. Res. Tech. 58:52–58, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.