Biomaterials for Neurotherapeutics: From Lab Discovery to Clinical Application.

Biomaterials are potential tools for improving the repair of injured tissue in the peripheral and the central nervous system (CNS) [1, 2]. Successful application for neurotherapeutics of biomaterials will require an in-depth understanding of the interaction between materials and neural tissue [3, 4]. Information on the composition and physicochemical properties of biomaterials, cell-matrix interaction, as well as a biomaterial-related clinical case report will aid the biomaterial development for nerve repair [5]. Last year, we invited some investigators to review articles that seek the relationship between biomaterials and nerve repair. We are particularly interested in articles exploring novel materials for nerve regeneration, new insights in cell-matrix interactions, advances in surface modification and structure reconstruction, and new concepts on nerve repair in the clinic. Today, we are glad to publish this special issue of the journal Current Neuropharmacology.

In this special issue, four review articles are accepted. Fabrizio Gelain described with detail the possible regulatory pathways of extracellular matrix (ECM) involved in the CNS injury and regeneration, including filling the lesion cavity, favoring transplanted cell engraftment [6], providing physical support to endogenous neurogenesis [7], and also tuning the inflammatory response to protect spared neurons [8]. Kyle D Fink evaluated advantages and limitations in current programmable DNA-binding proteins (DBDs) delivery strategies in vivo, such as adeno-associated virus [9], direct administration or encapsulation in lipid nanoparticles of DBDs [10], and discussed the use of adult stem cells as a putative delivery vehicle for DBDs and potential advantages that this system have over previous methodologies [11]. Haruo Hagiwara primarily highlighted the regenerative effects of exosomes from distinct sources on peripheral nerve injury, which include that exosomes could exert neurotherapeutic effects via mediating axonal regrowth, Schwann cell activation, vascular regeneration, and inflammatory regulation; the challenges that must be addressed in their clinical transformation are outlined as well [12]. Qiang Ao reviewed the decellularization techniques, the component analysis of nerve ECM [13], and the recent progress of xenogeneic ECM-based biomaterials used as hydrogel [14], wraps [1], and guidance conduits [15] in nerve tissue engineering.

Although the research on biomaterials for Neurotherapy is in full swing, most of them are in the primary stage of research, and few materials can really enter clinical application [16]. Researchers engaged in basic research need to cooperate closely with clinicians, take clinical application as guidance, and constantly develop new materials and methods to solve clinical problems. This thematic issue introduces and discusses the new strategies and application prospects of repairing peripheral and central nervous system injuries in many aspects in order to clarify the important knowledge gap and stimulate ideas for further research and the development of treatment strategies.