Abstract
Electrically conductive scaffolds are of significant interest in tissue regeneration. However, the chemistry of the existing scaffolds usually lacks the bioactive features for effective interaction with cells. In this study, poly(ε-caprolactone) was electrospun into aligned nanofibers with 0.58 µm average diameter. Electrospinning was followed by polypyrrole coating on the surface of the fibers, which resulted in 48 kΩ/sq surface resistivity. An oxygen plasma treatment was conducted to change the hydrophobic surface of the fiber mats into a hydrophilic substrate. The water contact angle was reduced from 136° to 0°, and this change remained on the surface of the material even after one year. An indirect cytotoxicity test was conducted, which showed cytocompatibility of the fibrous scaffolds. To measure the cell growth on samples, fibroblast cells were cultured on fibers for 7 days. The cell distribution and density were observed and calculated based on confocal images taken of the cell culture experiment. The number of cells on the plasma-treated sample was more than double than that of sample without plasma treatment. The long-lasting hydrophilicity of the plasma treated fibers with conductive coating is the significant contribution of this work for regeneration of electrically excitable tissues.
Highlights
Research on scaffolds made for tissue regeneration is progressing extensively to meet the further requirements of tissue engineering
We demonstrate a durable hydrophilicity on a conductive scaffold that provides an enhanced surface for cell attachment
Among the requirements of the scaffolds used for regeneration of electrically excitable tissues, the appropriate biochemistry of the materials is essential
Summary
Research on scaffolds made for tissue regeneration is progressing extensively to meet the further requirements of tissue engineering. These requirements range from morphological and mechanical to biological properties. A net-shaped structure with interconnected pores is an important prerequisite for cells to grow into their desired physical shape, and for the vascularization of the ingrown tissue to take place [1]. Mechanical properties of the scaffold are required to be fully adapted to the specific regenerating tissue. The scaffold must not collapse during surgical implantation. After the implantation, a patient’s regular activities must not lead to deformation of the scaffold [2]. Biological properties of the scaffold might be the most important elements to consider, because living cells are leading the tissue regeneration
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