Fabrication of Curcumin‑Incorporated Collagen Based Scaffold Promoted Nerve Regeneration After Sciatic Nerve Transection in Rats

Introduction: Peripheral nerve injuries can result in long-term sensory and motor deficits, with limited options for effective clinical repair. Tissue-engineered scaffolds have emerged as promising alternatives to autografts, particularly when combined with bioactive agents. In the present study, we assessed the effects of a bioactive and biodegradable collagen-based scaffold (CS) incorporated with curcumin on enhancing nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve transection in rats. Material and Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups (Sham, Control, CS, and CSC). Following sciatic nerve transection, the animals received the respective interventions. Behavioral tests (SFI, hot plate latency, paw withdrawal threshold) were performed over 12 weeks. At the end of the study, histological (nerve volume and axon density), immunohistochemistry (for NF-200), and molecular (qRT-PCR for NGF, BDNF, S100β) analyses were conducted. Gastrocnemius muscle weight was also assessed as an indicator of functional reinnervation. Results: The CSC group showed enhanced scaffold integrity and biocompatibility without compromising porosity or swelling. SEM confirmed uniform morphology and sustained curcumin release. In vivo, CSC significantly preserved muscle mass, improved nerve morphology, and increased axon density and gene expression of neurotrophic markers compared to the CS or control groups (P < 0.05). Behavioral outcomes consistently favored the CSC group across all tests, indicating superior functional recovery. Conclusion: The combination of a CS with curcumin significantly promotes peripheral nerve regeneration. These findings support the use of bioactive scaffold systems as a potential therapeutic strategy for nerve repair.