Targeted Imaging and Therapeutic Technologies in Neuroregeneration

Extremity injuries are less likely to be fatal than head, chest, and abdominal wounds; however, they can be severely disabling. Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) can result from trauma (lacerations, penetrating injury, stretching, ischemia or crushing trauma and fractures, and gunshot wounds), repetitive compression (tunnel syndromes), or iatrogenic causes (orthopedic, plastic, neurosurgical or other surgical procedures such as oncologic resection). Nerve regeneration is an essential process needed for the recovery of function. However, our understanding of this process is still rather limited, and access to successful personalized regeneration supportive treatment is lacking. This chapter focuses on surveying new technological advances such as targeted nanoimaging and immunomodulation in support of neuroregeneration following peripheral injuries. Specifically, we highlight new nanotechnology advances in targeted cell tracking and imaging, as well as targeted drug delivery and cellular therapeutics. Though most of this work is preclinical, we hope that these advances drive the development of novel, safe and effective clinical solutions.