The unsatisfactory sensory function reconstruction after flap transplantation to repair tissue defects and reconstruct organs results in decreased quality of life. Schwann cells (SCs) can promote sensory function reconstruction, but the underlying mechanism is not completely understood. The aim of the present study was to explore the in‑depth mechanism underlying SCs in sensory function reconstruction. Sciatic nerve transection and a repair animal model were performed to evaluate the effect of SC‑like cells (iSCs) and a neurotrophin 3 (NT‑3) chitosan conduit. SC RNA‑seq data indicated that the SOX2/fibronectin 1 (FN1) axis promoted proliferation and migration, which are the cytological bases of nerve regeneration. Subsequently, the effects of SOX2, FN1 and exosomes secreted by iSCs on SC proliferation and migration were assessed using scratch wound and EdU assays, respectively. The RNA‑seq of SCs indicated that SOX2 overexpression increased iSC viability and migration. Furthermore, SOX2 increased FN1 expression to promote nerve recovery by fibronectin fibrillogenesis. In addition, exosomes secreted by iSCs increased SC viability and migration. In conclusion, iSCs with an NT‑3 chitosan conduit promoted sciatic nerve recovery via the SOX2/FN1 axis and exosomes secreted by iSCs. Therefore, the present study identified potential effective therapeutic approaches for sciatic nerve repair.
Keywords: SOX2; Schwann cells; exosomes; fibronectin 1; sciatic nerve repair.