Autophagy and Facial Nerve Regeneration: A Complex Relationship in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

The facial nerve is particularly vulnerable in the maxillofacial region, and synaptic reorganization can occur within four hours after its transection. Schwann cells play a crucial role in facilitating axon regeneration after injury, and autophagy has been found to regulate their function. Autophagy inhibition can hinder nerve fiber disintegration, weaken the accumulation of Schwann cells, and delay tissue debris removal and nerve regeneration. On the other hand, autophagy activation can increase nerve proliferation, reduce Schwann cell apoptosis, and facilitate nerve debris clearance, providing an ideal microenvironment for nerve engineering.

However, there are inconsistent results regarding the effect of autophagy on nerve regeneration. Some studies have shown that autophagy inhibition can promote axon regeneration and myelination, while others have found that it may shift the proliferation mode of Schwann cells and affect the regeneration of peripheral nerves. More research is needed to fully understand the role of autophagy in oral and maxillofacial peripheral nerve regeneration, and to translate these findings into clinical practice.