Gene expression of transforming growth factor beta isoforms in interposition nerve grafting

Scar production and neuroma formation at nerve graft coaptation sites may l imit axonal regeneration and impair functional outcome. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) is a family of growth factors that is involved in s car formation, wound healing, and nerve regeneration. Fifteen adult Sprague -Dawley rats underwent autogenous nerve grafting. The nerve grafts were ana lyzed by in situ hybridization to determine the temporal and spatial expres sion of TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta3 messenger RNA (mRNA). The grafted nerves sh owed increased expression of TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta3 mRNA in the nerve and the surrounding connective tissue during the first postoperative week. Thes e data suggest that modulation of TGF-beta levels in the first postoperativ e week may be effective in helping to control scar formation and improve ne rve regeneration. Copyright (C) 2001 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.