Schwann cell and tissue engneering of the peripheral nerve

Schwann cell(SC) is a particular gliacyte of the peripheral nerve system. SC not only is an important factor of supporting and protecting axons, maintaining the normal function and good microenviroment of the peripheral nerve, but also play a key role on peripheral nerve injury, regeneration, and repair.At present, SC could be obtained and cultured from infancy peripheral nerve or adult Wallerian degenerated nerve. The cultured SCs could adhere and combine with polyglycolic acid(PGA), polyeactic acid(PLA), and other biodegradating materials . The artificial nerve conduct containning SC could guide axons regeneration. It is still thoroughly that the tissue engneering of peripheral nerve is studied to repair nerve defect clinically.