Genetic processes that allow cells to transform so they can mend damaged nerves have been identified by scientists.

Their insights on tissue repair could advance the search for drug therapies to improve regeneration after injury, experts say.

Researchers focused on injury to cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The study could inform new treatments for a set of conditions known as peripheral neuropathies, which are caused by damage to the cells in the PNS and can lead to extreme sensitivity to touch as well as numbness and muscle weakness.

"Our findings give us insight into how cells in the body adapts to injury. This knowledge will help identify drug targets for much-needed therapies to help patients with peripheral neuropathy and traumatic nerve injuries," said Prof Timothy Aitman, Director of the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine.

Scientists identified molecules that potentially allow nerve-supporting cells – known as Schwann cells – to transform into a specialised version that enable them to help nerves regenerate.

As well as identifying vital genes that orchestrate this transformation, the scientists discovered molecular markers that flag these Schwann cells as specialist repairers.

Genes identified by the research team – led by the Universities of Edinburgh, Cambridge and University College London – were also found to be similar to those seen in tumour formation, which could shed light on cell growth in cancers.

"We have shown that a number of genes expressed by repair Schwann cells are similar to genes involved in the processes that lead to a number of cancers. This suggests that molecular mechanisms that have evolved to promote tissue repair are closely related to those involved in tumour formation, which could help us understand cancers," said Dr Peter Arthur-Farraj from Wellcome Trust Clinical Fellow at the University of Cambridge.

The study was published in the journal Cell Reports.