Effect of neurotrophic factors on peripheral nerve repair

Aims: This review aimed to analyze and discuss studies about the main growth factors tested in vitro and in vivo on peripheral nerves regeneration. Source of data: Articles were selected from the databases LILACS, Medline, and SciELO, using the following key words: nerve regeneration, nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, neurotrophin 3, neurotrophin 4/5, ciliary neurotrophic factor, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor, peripheral nervous system, injury, sensory neurons, motor neurons, autologous graft, and rats. Summary of findings: Several trophic factors, also known as growth factors, are used and tested in vitro and in vivo regeneration of peripheral nerves. These proteins act directly on the proliferation and differentiation of different cell types, being able to promote tissue repair and functional recovery. Usually the ideal model for the application of these substances is a continuous delivery system via biodegradable conduits. Conclusions: It is possible to conclude that the combination of two or more growth factors probably exercise a synergistic effect on nerve regeneration, especially when associated with absorble biomaterials with controlled release. Although the knowledge obtained about these proteins indicate an improvement in nerve regeneration, further experimental studies are needed before transpose them into clinical application.