# Peripheral nerve regeneration using a biodegradable conduit from açaí (Euterpe oleracea): a bio-based alternative to autografts

## TL;DR

This study shows that a biodegradable nerve conduit made from açaí can help regenerate peripheral nerves in rats as effectively as autografts.

## Contribution

A novel biodegradable nerve conduit made from açaí-derived polyurethane is proposed as a viable alternative to autografts.

## Key findings

- The açaí-based conduit showed significant functional recovery and progressive improvement in nerve regeneration.
- Electrophysiological analysis showed higher amplitude and lower latency in the açaí-based conduit compared to other groups.
- Histomorphometric analysis revealed increased axonal density in the açaí-based conduit group.

## Abstract

To evaluate the regenerative efficacy of an experimental biodegradable nerve conduit composed of polycaprolactone and açaí-derived polyurethane, used for peripheral nerve repair, in comparison with different reconstructive techniques.

Wistar rats (n = 48) were allocated into six groups (n = 8): normality (NG), denervated (DG), burial (BG), nerve autograft (NAG), açaí-based neurotube (ANG), and vein autograft (VAG). Sciatic functional index, electrophysiological parameters, and histomorphometry were assessed after 12 weeks.

NAG and ANG showed significant functional recovery, with ANG being the only group to demonstrate progressive improvement (p = 0.009). Electrophysiological analysis revealed higher amplitude and lower latency in NAG, followed by ANG and VAG. Histomorphometric analysis showed increased axonal density in ANG and NAG compared to non-reconstructed groups (p = 0.004 and p = 0.007, respectively).

The polycaprolactone/açaí-based conduit demonstrated regenerative performance comparable to autologous nerve grafts.