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

PURPOSE: 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.

METHODS

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.

RESULTS

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).

CONCLUSION

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