Inflammatory cells and mediators in the silicone chamber model for nerve regeneration.

In the present study the inflammatory response was quantitatively evaluated during peripheral nerve regeneration. The fluid from silicone nerve regeneration chambers, inserted in rats, was collected during the early period of regeneration of transected sciatic nerves (6 h-7 d) and analysed with respect to inflammatory cells and mediators (leukotriene B4, LTB4, and interleukin-1 alpha, IL-1 alpha). Leucocytes were detected during the entire period (up to 7 d after implantation). The highest concentration was detected after 24 h. PMNG (polymorphonuclear granulocyte) was the predominant cell type in the chamber fluid during the initial 5d of regeneration. Analysis of the concentration of LTB4 demonstrated two peaks (at 24 h and 5 d). The IL-1 alpha concentration displayed an early and relatively smaller peak after 24 h and a second and much larger peak after 7 d, concomitant with an increase of the number of mononuclear cells.