The Role of Cerebrolysin in Promoting Axonal Regeneration and Functional Recovery after Peripheral Nerve Injury: A Focus on Macrophage Activation.

Abstract

Purpose: The research investigated the neuroprotective properties of Cerebrolysin regarding functional recovery, axonal regeneration, and macrophage polarization in a rat model of acute sciatic nerve damage.

Methods: The research included 72 male Wistar rats, categorized into six groups: sham control, crush injury, vehicle-treated crush damage, and two groups receiving Cerebrolysin treatment for crush injury. The assessment of functional recovery was conducted with the sciatic functional index and hot plate test, while axonal regeneration, muscle atrophy, and macrophage polarization were also studied.

Results: Results demonstrated that Cerebrolysin, particularly at 5 mg/kg, significantly improved SFI scores and thermal paw withdrawal latency compared to the control group, indicating enhanced functional recovery. Histomorphometric analysis revealed increased myelinated axon counts in the Cerebrolysin-treated groups. Cerebrolysin also reduced gastrocnemius muscle atrophy and induced a change in macrophage polarization from pro-inflammatory M1 to pro-healing M2.

Conclusion: These results imply that cerebrolysin improves functional outcomes, promotes axonal regeneration, and modifies macrophage polarization to provide neuroprotective effects in peripheral nerve damage. The 5 mg/kg dosage proved to be more effective than the 2.5 mg/kg dose. This study highlights the potential of Cerebrolysin as a therapeutic agent for peripheral nerve injuries.