MATERIAL and METHODS: Male rats (n=24) were randomly divided into sham surgery, autograft, and Propolis+gum Arabic groups with equal numbers. Under anesthesia, the sciatic nerve was removed, and the gap between the two ending was repaired by Propolis-gum Arabic or nerve autograft. Nerve regeneration was evaluated by sciatic function index (SFI), withdrawal reflex latency (WRL), muscle fiber diameter, number of myelinated axons, myelinated fiber diameter, and immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS: At 30, 49, 60 and 90 days after surgery, the mean of SFI in Propolis + gum Arabic group was significantly greater than the autograft group (p<0.03). The mean muscle fiber diameters (30 and 90 days after surgery) and the mean number of myelinated axons (90 days after surgery) in Propolis + gum Arabic group were significantly greater than autograft group (p<0.05). In addition, 90 days after surgery, the mean myelinated fiber diameter in Propolis + gum Arabic group was significantly higher than autograft group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that as guidance channel, the Propolis + gum Arabic may be useful in peripheral nerve regeneration. Keywords : Propolis, Gum Arabic, Nerve regeneration, Nerve guidance channel, Sciatic nerve, Rats