Neuroprotective effects of Pycnogenol on nerve regeneration and functional recovery after sciatic nerve crush injury in rodents

Abstract

Abstract Pycnogenol, a standardized French maritime pine bark extract, is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This study evaluated its therapeutic potential in sciatic nerve regeneration following crush injury in female Sprague Dawley rats. Twenty-one rats were assigned to Sham, Control, and Pycnogenol (100 mg/kg/day) groups. After standardized nerve injury, Pycnogenol was administered for 28 days. Functional recovery was assessed using the Sciatic Functional Index (SFI), pinprick, and cold allodynia tests. Histopathology, muscle weight, and ELISA for nerve growth factor (NGF) were evaluated post-euthanasia. By Day 14, the Pycnogenol group showed significantly better SFI scores (83.60 ± 2.26 vs. 89.81 ± 2.42, p  < 0.001), with continued improvement through Day 28 (49.42 ± 3.0 vs. 62.95 ± 2.93, p  < 0.001). Histological analysis revealed enhanced muscle regeneration, increased fiber area, and improved myelination. ELISA confirmed significantly elevated NGF levels, supporting Pycnogenol’s neuroprotective role. These findings highlight its potential in peripheral nerve injury treatment. Further research is needed to confirm efficacy in humans, explore molecular mechanisms, and compare it with existing neuro-regenerative therapies. Pycnogenol may serve as a promising agent in neurology and regenerative medicine.