Peripheral nerve regeneration

Peripheral nerve regeneration is the endogenous process by which peripheral nerves repair after injury, comprising axonal regrowth, myelin clearance and remodeling, Schwann cell and macrophage activation, and reinnervation of end organs[1][4][5][9]. This process is orchestrated by multiple molecular mediators, including neurotrophic factors (NGF, BDNF, GDNF, IGF-1, FGF), cytokines (such as TGF-β), and signaling pathways (MAPK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, Rho-kinase), which act on both neurons and supporting glia, particularly Schwann cells[5][6][9][12]. Despite advances in surgical repair and regenerative medicine, peripheral nerve regeneration remains only partially effective, and therapeutic research targets enhancement through exogenous factor delivery, modulation of molecular pathways, and cell therapy approaches. There is no single therapeutic target or molecule called "peripheral nerve regeneration." Instead, interventions target key pathways, growth factors, or support cells involved in this process[9][12].

Other names

Peripheral nerve repairNerve regeneration (peripheral)

Activation of neurotrophic signaling pathways (e.g., MAPK/ERK, PI3K/AKT); Modulation of Schwann cell and macrophage activity to support nerve repair; Stimulation of axonal outgrowth, guidance, and remyelination by growth factors; Inhibition of inhibitory processes (e.g., Rho-kinase inhibition)