An experimental model is described, which has been used for evaluating effects of clinically used concentrations of chymopapain on peripheral nerve tissue. Chymopapain does not acutely block impulse conduction or axonal transport of proteins. However, chymopapain induces impairment of the barrier function of the perineurial sheath and increases permeability of the intraneural microvessels resulting in intraneural edema formation. The long-term consequences are degeneration of nerve fibers and formation of intraneural fibrosis, requiring an increased threshold voltage for eliciting action potentials. The results are discussed in relation to the clinical use of chymopapain in the treatment of intervertebral disc disease.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Rydevik et al. (1976) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 related papers. Consider them for comparative context: