Analysis of gene expression and biological processes in the Wallerian degeneration segments of rat distal nerves

Abstract

Peripheral nerve injuries occur due to accidents and in manufacturing every day. Unlike the central nervous system, injured peripheral nerves can self‑regenerate after injury. The study explored changes in gene expression and related biological processes after peripheral nerve injury and regeneration. Male Sprague‑Dawley rats were divided into six groups and underwent sciatic nerve resection followed by recovery for 0, 3, 6, 10, 15, and 20 days; distal sciatic nerve segments were collected for sequencing, real‑time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR), and Western blotting. According to DNA microarray analysis, approximately 5,000 genes were differentially expressed, and six biological processes were identified at different time points after nerve transection, with expression mainly observed in the mid and latter stages after injury. Four genes (UDP glycosyltransferase 8 [Ugt8], C‑C motif chemokine ligand 2 [Ccl2], neuregulin 1 [Nrg1], and heme oxygenase‑1 [Hmox1]) with nerve regeneration‑specific function were selected for further verification using RT‑qPCR
and Western blot. The results demonstrated that genes such as Ugt8 decreased initially and then peaked at 20 days, whereas Ccl2 and Hmox1 both exhibited two peaks at three and 20 days. Nrg1 showed a gradual increase, peaking around 15 days. The study identified differential gene expression in distal nerve segments during Wallerian degeneration and analyzed the associated dynamic biological changes. The findings provide insights into research on peripheral nerve injury and regeneration, and further studies will involve screening key genes and more detailed investigations.