Interaction of Schwann cells with laminin encapsulated PLCL core–shell nanofibers for nerve tissue engineering

Abstract

Nerve tissue engineering (TE) is a rapidly expanding area of research advancing towards the repair and regeneration of non-union peripheral nerve defects caused by injuries. The current challenge for researchers is to develop a biomimetic scaffold that is capable of stimulating the re-growth of the native tissue, thus structurally mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM), providing chemical guidance cues and mechanical support for re-enervation of the damaged region. Laminin is a glycoprotein naturally occurring in nerves and it plays a significant role towards the migration of nerve cells and axonal outgrowth. In this study, laminin incorporated scaffolds were produced by co-axial electrospinning and blend electrospinning techniques, in order to develop suitable biomaterial constructs for peripheral nerve tissue regeneration. Core–shell and blend nanofibers of laminin incorporated poly(L-lactic acid)-co-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) with diameters of 316±110nm and 350±112nm were respectively, fabricated and the morphology, surface hydrophilicity, chemical and mechanical properties were investigated. The ability of attachment and proliferation of Schwann cells on the electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds was investigated by cell proliferation assay and their phenotype was evaluated by immunocytochemical staining using specific S100 antibody. The cells were found to attach and proliferate on core–shell PLCL–laminin scaffolds, expressing bi- and tri-polar elongations retaining their typical phenotype. Results of 7days of in vitro culture of Schwann cells, showed 78% increase in cell proliferation on core–shell structured nanofibers compared to blend PLCL–laminin scaffolds, which confirmed the potential application of these constructs as substrates for peripheral nerve regeneration.