Harnessing Polyethylene Glycol 3350 for Enhanced Peripheral Nerve Repair: A Path to Accelerated Recovery

<i>Background and Objectives:</i> Peripheral nerve injuries often result in significant functional impairment, and complete recovery remains challenging despite surgical interventions. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) has shown promise in nerve repair by facilitating axonal fusion and inhibiting Wallerian degeneration. This study investigates the biochemical, histopathological, and electrophysiological effects of PEG 3350 in a sciatic nerve injury model. <i>Materials and Methods</i>: Thirty adult male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: a control group, a surgery and saline group, and a surgery and PEG 3350 treatment group. Sciatic nerve transection was performed, and PEG 3350 was administered intraperitoneally for 12 weeks. Electromyography (EMG) and the inclined plane test assessed functional recovery. Sciatic nerve tissues were analyzed histologically and biochemically, including nerve growth factor (NGF), heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. <i>Results</i>: PEG 3350 significantly improved electrophysiological parameters, reducing compound muscle action potential (CMAP) latency and increasing CMAP amplitude compared to the saline group (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Functional recovery, assessed by the inclined plane test, showed a significant improvement in the PEG-treated group (<i>p</i> < 0.01). Biochemical analysis revealed increased NGF and HSP-70 levels, suggesting enhanced neuroprotection and regeneration. Histopathological analysis demonstrated reduced fibrosis and increased axonal density in the PEG group compared to controls. PEG 3350 enhances nerve regeneration by improving electrophysiological function, promoting axonal repair, and increasing neurotrophic factor expression. <i>Conclusions</i>: These findings suggest PEG as a potential adjunct therapy for peripheral nerve injuries. Future research should explore the optimal administration protocols and combined therapeutic strategies for maximizing recovery.