Axonal regeneration style and speed after axonal transaction: a preliminary study

Abstract

Objective To establish a central nervous system axonal mechanical transection model in vitro and observe the axonal regeneration style and speed following the transection. Methods The cortical explants the mice were cultured in vitro,of which the axon and dendrite parts were marked using immunofluorescence.The model was built by mechanically transecting the axons and removing the severed axons.The axonal regeneration style was observed by tracing the undeveloped cellular bodies adhering to the residual axonal surface.The growth speed of the regenerated axons and normal axons were measured as well. Results ( 1 ) After mechauically transecting the axons of explants,the axonal regeneration was largely founded at the transected line.The undeveloped cellular bodies went over the transected line and spread to the distal area with axonai regeneration. (2) The axonal growth speed was (118 ± 32) μm/d and (72 ±41) μm/d in the transection group,but was (41 ± 17) μm/d and (32 ± 19) μm/d in the control group at 24 and 48 hours respectively. Conclusion The regeneration style of the transected axons is the extension of the axonal stumps,rather than sprouting growth,and the growth speed is faster than that of the normal axons. Key words: Axons; Axotomy; Regeneration