A mesh infused with vitamin B12 was developed by Japanese researchers to promote healing of injured peripheral nerves.

The electrospun nanofiber sheet incorporates and delivers methylcobalamin, one of the active forms of vitamin B12 homologues, directly to the injury site.Nanofiber mesh incorporating vitamin B12 could find use in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Source: National Institute for Materials Science

Vitamin B12 has been known to facilitate nerve regeneration, but oral administration has not proven to be very effective, and no devices are available deliver it directly to affected sites.

The soft mesh is wrapped around the damaged nerve to perform this function, after which it is eventually eliminated from the body.

When applied to injured sciatic nerves in rats, the biodegradable mesh promoted nerve regeneration and recovery of motor and sensory functions within six weeks.

Researchers from Osaka University and the National Institute for Material Science are planning clinical evaluations of the mesh in the treatment of peripheral nerve disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome.