Proteins electrical stimuli application

Electrical stimulation has been shown to enhance nerve cell regeneration [124,125], the mechanisms for this effect are, however, unclear. One hypothesis is that an electrical stimulus alters the local electrical fields of extracellular matrix molecules, changing protein adsorption [126]. As early as 1994, studies into the suitability of ICPs such as PPy as neuronal scaffolds provided positive proof that these electroactive stimulus response polymers indeed have a role to play. Shastri et al. [127] showed that neurite extension of PC 12 cells was more pronounced on PPy surfaces as compared to tissue culture polystyrene. The authors also showed that the application of an electrical stimulus to the cell culture on the PPy film significantly increased the expression of neurites in the cells compared to the controls. In addition, they demonstrated through tissue compatibility and transected sciatic nerve regeneration studies in rat models that the PPy films invoke little negative response and support nerve regeneration. 

The behavior of electroactive materials is controlled by the application of an electrical stimulus. Changes in surface properties as a result of electrical exposure include alterations in wettability, conformation, and protein adsorption. A self-assembled... 

As noted above, Passmore et al. (2003) were the first to demonstrate that Kv7.2, 7.3 and 7.5 are expressed at the protein level in sensory neurons and also that functional M-currents can be measured under voltage-clamp. They were further able to demonstrate that pharmacological activation of Kv7 channels by direct application of retigabine to the spinal cord inhibited both C fiber and AS fiber-mediated signaling. This was true when the afferent fibers were excited by either electrical or tactile stimuli. Moreover, wind-up , an increased sensitivity of the stimulus/response relationship to repetitive stimuli, is also inhibited. These results demonstrate a clear role of Kv7 channels in sensory neuron processing. Gerlach et al. (2006, 2007) have also reported direct effects of ICA-27243 on both M-currents and membrane potential in isolated DRG neurons. Activation of the M-current by ICA-27243... 

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