Open AccessThree-dimensional Reconstruction of the Microstructure of Human Acellular Nerve Allograft
Author(s) -
Shuang Zhu,
Qian Zhu,
Xiaolin Liu,
Wei Yang,
Yutao Jian,
Xiang Zhou,
Bo He,
Liqiang Gu,
Liwei Yan,
Tao Lin,
Jianping Xiang,
Jian Qi
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
scientific reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.24
H-Index - 213
ISSN - 2045-2322
DOI - 10.1038/srep30694
Subject(s) - peripheral nerve , microstructure , basement membrane , high resolution , anatomy , materials science , 3d model , resolution (logic) , biomedical engineering , computer science , medicine , geology , artificial intelligence , composite material , remote sensing
The exact inner 3D microstructure of the human peripheral nerve has been a mystery for decades. Therefore, it has been difficult to solve several problems regarding peripheral nerve injury and repair. We used high-resolution X-ray computed microtomography (microCT) to scan a freeze-dried human acellular nerve allograft (hANA). The microCT images were then used to reconstruct a 3D digital model, which was used to print a 3D resin model of the nerve graft. The 3D digital model of the hANA allowed visualization of all planes. The magnified 3D resin model clearly showed the nerve bundles and basement membrane tubes of the hANA. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyse the microstructure of the hANA. Compared to the SEM images, the microCT image clearly demonstrated the microstructure of the hANA cross section at a resolution of up to 1.2 μm. The 3D digital model of the hANA facilitates a clear and easy understanding of peripheral nerve microstructure. Furthermore, the enlarged 3D resin model duplicates the unique inner structure of each individual hANA. This is a crucial step towards achieving 3D printing of a hANA or nerve that can be used as a nerve graft.