Abstract
Electrospun scaffolds have a 3D fibrous structure that attempts to imitate the extracellular matrix in order to be able to host cells. It has been reported in the literature that controlling fiber surface topography produces varying results regarding cell–scaffold interactions. This review analyzes the relevant literature concerning in vitro studies to provide a better understanding of the effect that controlling fiber surface topography has on cell–scaffold interactions. A systematic approach following PRISMA, GRADE, PICO, and other standard methodological frameworks for systematic reviews was used. Different topographic interventions and their effects on cell–scaffold interactions were analyzed. Results indicate that nanopores and roughness on fiber surfaces seem to improve proliferation and adhesion of cells. The quality of the evidence is different for each studied cell–scaffold interaction, and for each studied morphological attribute. The evidence points to improvements in cell–scaffold interactions on most morphologically complex fiber surfaces. The discussion includes an in-depth evaluation of the indirectness of the evidence, as well as the potentially involved publication bias. Insights and suggestions about dose-dependency relationship, as well as the effect on particular cell and polymer types, are presented. It is concluded that topographical alterations to the fiber surface should be further studied, since results so far are promising.
Highlights
Electrospinning is a versatile technique to generate ultrathin fibers [1]
The aim of this review is to evaluate the current state of knowledge in the literature regarding the effect of any topographical modification of electrospun fiber surfaces on cell adhesion, proliferation and/or differentiation
Before discussing the evidence presented in this review, a set of morphological and physicochemical variables that interact with fiber surface topography must be discussed, since these can contribute to risk of bias and have a bearing on the applicability of the evidence as a whole
Summary
Electrospinning is a versatile technique to generate ultrathin fibers [1]. Electrospun nano- and microfibers have proven to be useful in several fields of application—e.g., filtration and protective material, electrical and optical applications, biomedical applications, sensors, and nanofiber reinforced composites [1,2]. One implicit goal is to replicate living tissue, a substrate for cells must exist for them to effectively develop on. In nature, this role is fulfilled by the extracellular matrix (ECM). In order to imitate the ECM of humans, one approach is to emulate its hierarchical multiscale structures and complexity. This is where electrospun scaffolds shine, because they can achieve properties such as very thin fibers, large surface areas, and superior mechanical properties. Their ease of processing makes them an excellent candidate for large-scale production [2]
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