The selectivity of motor axons during regeneration with sensory axons

J Reconstr Microsurg. 1996 Nov;12(8):553-6; discussion 556-7. doi: 10.1055/s-2007-1006629.

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of selective sensory regeneration on less selective motor regeneration in a rat femoral nerve model. The proximal stump of the motor branch to the quadriceps muscle was sutured to the distal stumps of one motor and one sensory branch. Regenerated sensory axons were degenerated secondarily, and motor regeneration was later evaluated. The distal sensory stump attracted both regenerating sensory and motor axons. Misdirected motor axons in the distal branches were not pruned over time. The authors hypothesized that motor regeneration may be been influenced by selective sensory regeneration or non-selective neurotropic attraction.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Axons / physiology*
  • Femoral Nerve / physiology*
  • Femoral Nerve / surgery
  • Male
  • Motor Neurons / physiology*
  • Nerve Regeneration / physiology*
  • Neurons, Afferent / physiology*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Suture Techniques