Comparison of drug-release-free and IGF-1 LR3-controlled drug-release nerve conduits from desellularized alstroemeria flower stem with autologous nerve graft and standard nerve condoms in rat sciatic nerve defect model

Aim: Peripheral nerve injuries are a common clinical problem, often leading to significant functional impairments. In cases of extensive nerve defects, there is a pressing need for alternatives to nerve grafts. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of nerve conduits derived from decellularized Alstroemeria (Peruvian lily) stalks, with or without controlled Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Long R3 (IGF-1 LR3) release, on peripheral nerve regeneration. A rat sciatic nerve defect model was used to compare functional, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and electrophysiological outcomes with those of nerve grafts and commercial nerve conduits. Material and Method: Thirty Wistar Albino rats were divided into six groups: positive and negative controls, a nerve graft group, a commercial nerve conduit group, and two groups using conduits with or without IGF-1 LR3 release. Walking analyses were conducted at weeks 4, 8, and 12. At week 12, nerve conduction velocity and amplitude were measured, and histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations were performed. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests. Results: IGF-1 LR3-releasing conduits showed significant improvements in axon count, myelin thickness, and MBP and NRF immunostaining compared to the nerve graft and commercial conduit groups. Walking analysis revealed better functional recovery at weeks 4 and 8, although no differences were observed at week 12. Muscle weight ratios and electrophysiological measurements showed no significant differences. Conclusion: Nerve conduits derived from decellularized Alstroemeria stalks with controlled IGF-1 LR3 release enhanced nerve regeneration more effectively than nerve grafts, with no observed toxic effects.