Biomimicry in 3D printing design: implications for peripheral nerve regeneration.

Abstract

Nerve guide conduits (NGCs) connect dissected nerve stumps and effectively repair short-range peripheral nerve defects. However, for long-range defects, autograftsshowbetter therapeutic effects, despite intrinsic limitations. Recent evidenceshows that biomimetic design is essential for high-performance NGCs, and 3D printing is a promising fabricating technique. The current work includes a brief review ofthechallenges for peripheral nerve regeneration. The authors propose a potential solution using biomimetic 3D-printed NGCsas alternative therapies. The assessment of biomimetic designs includes microarchitecture, mechanical property, electrical conductivity and biologics inclusion. The applications of 3D printing in preparing NGCsand present strategies to improve therapeutic effects are also discussed.