Advances in nanotechnology and nanomaterials based strategies for neural tissue engineering

Abstract

Recent development in science and technology and invention of wonderful nanomaterials by nanotechnology helps advances in healthcare and treatment. Nerve degeneration, scar tissue formation and loss of communication between neurons and cells are the major issues of nerve injury. Till date it is remain a major challenge the regeneration of nerve tissue at injury site. There are various kinds of nanomaterials-based engineering approaches have been developed and under investigation to prevent or treat nerve injuries. Different nanomaterials are classified into two categories such as inorganic and organic nanomaterials. Inorganic nanomaterials such as metal, alloys, silica, magnetic, upconversion nanoparticles and quantum dots; and organic nanomaterials such as polymeric nanoparticles, nanofibers, carbon-based nanomaterials namely carbon nanotubes and graphene, liposomes, micelles and dendrimers. These are promising nanomaterials with suitable physicochemical properties and hence employed for neural tissue engineering applications. The nanomaterials showed promising results and able to support cells adhesion, proliferation and promote neuronal cell differentiation and enhance regeneration of neuron. Here, in this review we have discussed brief overview of different nanomaterials, their properties, merits and demerit, promising results and progress towards neural tissue engineering applications.