Composite Nanofibrous Scaffolds Research Articles

Assessment of Physicochemical Characterization and Mineralization of Nanofibrous Scaffold Incorporated With Aspartic Acid for Dental Mineralization: An In Vitro Study.

Aim The aim of this study was to assess the physicochemical characterization and mineralization of nanofibrous scaffold incorporated with nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) and aspartic acid (Asp) for dental mineralization. Methodology Three nanofibrous scaffolds were prepared, namely polycaprolactone (PCL), PCL with nHA, and PCL with nHA and Asp. Each scaffold was prepared separately by electrospinning. The physicochemical characterization of the surface of the nanofibrous scaffold was imaged using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In vitro mineralization studies were performed by immersing the sample in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 7, 14, and 21 days. The surface of the samples was observed under SEM with EDX. Results SEM analysis of PCL/nHA/Asp revealed that the nanofibers were bead-free, smooth, randomly oriented, and loaded with Asp. The EDX spectra of PCL/nHA/Asp composite nanofibrous scaffold revealed broad peaks and corresponded to the amorphous form, while the sharp peaks corresponded to the specific crystalline structure of nHA. FTIR analysis showed specific functional groups corresponding to PCL, nHA, and Asp. The scaffolds incorporated with Asp exhibited higher mineralization potential with an apatite-like crystal formation, which increased with an increase in the duration of immersion in SBF. Conclusion Physiochemical characterization demonstrated the incorporation of PCL/nHA/Asp in the electrospun nanofibrous scaffold. The mineralization analysis revealed that the presence of Asp enhanced the mineralization when compared with the PCL and PCL/nHA. PCL/nHA/Asp incorporated in scaffold can be a promising material for dental mineralization.

Enhanced contrast imaging with polyamide 6/Fe(OH)3 nanofibrous scaffolds: A focus on high T1 relaxivity

Nanofibers serve as widely employed tissue engineering scaffolds in diverse biomedical applications. When implanted in vivo, it is crucial for tissue engineering scaffolds to be visualizable, enabling the monitoring of their shape, position, and performance. This capability facilitates the effective assessment of implant deformations, displacements, degradations, and functionalities. However, in many biomedical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the contrast of tissue engineering scaffolds is often inadequate. MRI is particularly notable for its effectiveness in imaging soft tissues. Previous endeavors to enhance the contrast of tissue engineering scaffolds in MRI have involved the use of negative contrast agents (CAs). Nonetheless, negative CAs can result in artifacts, thus favoring the preference for positive CAs due to their ability to generate clearer boundaries. In this study, we successfully prepared composite polyamide 6 nanofibrous scaffolds with ultrafine dispersion Fe(OH)3 nanoparticles using electrospinning and in-situ growth techniques. The relaxation properties of the magnetic nanofibrous scaffolds confirmed the successful production of scaffolds suitable for positive imaging. In vitro cell seeding experiments demonstrated the efficient proliferation and adhesion of endothelial cells and fibroblasts. In vivo studies further revealed the biocompatibility and functionality of the scaffolds. These findings indicate that the prepared PA6/Fe(OH)3 composite nanofibrous scaffolds can enable straightforward, safe, and efficient in vivo positive contrast MRI monitoring, thereby playing a pivotal role in the integration of diagnosis and treatment within tissue engineering scaffolds.

Biomolecule functionalized PVA-chitosan composite nanofibrous scaffold for human endometrium stromal cells attachment and proliferation: An in-vitro study

Human endometrial thickness (>7 mm) has been a prognostic factor for successful embryo implantation in natural pregnancy and assisted reproductive technology (ART). Functionalized scaffold-based tissue engineering approach has shown good potency in the functional repair of endometrium. In this study, we report biomolecule functionalized polyvinyl alcohol-chitosan (PVA-CH) composite nanofibrous scaffold for attachment and proliferation of human endometrial stromal cells (HESC) to improve endometrial thickness. The interconnected nanoporous architecture and sustained release of biomolecules supported HESC attachment, proliferation and extracellular matrix secretion on the developed scaffold. The prepared biomolecule-functionalized PVA-CH composite nanofibrous scaffold was biocompatible and biodegradable making it suitable for endometrial tissue regeneration applications.

Development of Poly(methyl methacrylate)/nano-hydroxyapatite (PMMA/nHA) Nanofibers for Tissue Engineering Regeneration Using an Electrospinning Technique.

The study explores the in vitro biocompatibility and osteoconductivity of poly(methyl methacrylate)/nano-hydroxyapatite (PMMA/nHA) composite nanofibrous scaffolds for bone tissue engineering (BTE). Electrospun scaffolds, exhibiting both low and high fiber orientation, were investigated. The inclusion of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles enhances the osteoconductivity of the scaffolds while maintaining the ease of fabrication through electrospinning. SEM analysis confirms the high-quality morphology of the scaffolds, with successful incorporation of nHA evidenced by SEM-EDS and FTIR methods. DSC analysis indicates that nHA addition increases the PMMA glass transition temperature (Tg) and reduces stress relaxation during electrospinning. Furthermore, higher fiber orientation affects PMMA Tg and stress relaxation differently. Biological studies demonstrate the composite material's non-toxicity, excellent osteoblast viability, attachment, spreading, and proliferation. Overall, PMMA/nHA composite scaffolds show promise for BTE applications.

Simultaneous Coating of Electrospun Nanofibers with Bioactive Molecules for Stem Cell Osteogenesis In Vitro.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely recognized as a promising cell type for therapeutic applications due to their ability to secrete and regenerate bioactive molecules. For effective bone healing, it is crucial to select a scaffold that can support, induce, and restore biological function. Evaluating the scaffold should involve assessing MSC survival, proliferation, and differentiation. The principal aim of this investigation was to formulate composite nanofibrous scaffolds apt for applications in bone tissue engineering. In this experimental study, nanofibrous scaffolds were fabricated using Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) polymer. The PLLA fibers' surface was modified by integrating collagen and hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles. The findings demonstrated that the collagen- and nanohydroxyapatite-modified electrospun PLLA scaffold positively influenced the attachment, growth, and osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Coating the nanofiber scaffold with collagen and nanoparticle HA significantly enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs on electrospun PLLA scaffolds.

Silk fibroin and gelatin composite nanofiber combined with silver and gold nanoparticles for wound healing accelerated by reducing the inflammatory response

The design and development of silver and gold nanoparticles incorporated into silk fibroin and gelatin composite nanofibers were prepared using the electrospun method. The functional group, chemical composition, and thermal stability of composite nanofibrous scaffolds were investigated using different characterization techniques. The confirmation of SF/GL/Ag-Au composite nanofibers was achieved through FE-SEM and AFM images, which proved to be highly beneficial for assessing surface morphology, thickness, and roughness area (Ra) with dimensions of 777 nm and 292.71 nm, respectively. Furthermore, HR-TEM images were used to elucidate the morphological structure and size of metal nanoparticles in SF/GL/Ag-Au composite nanofibers, revealing an average diameter length of 220.85 ± 82.65 nm for Ag and Au nanoparticles sizes noted at 6.25 nm and 11.56 nm. In addition, flow cytometry analysis of SF/GL/Ag-Au composite nanofibers was conducted to assess the viability of L929 cells and detect the apoptosis levels. Furthermore, invivo wound healing studies were performed on Sprague-Dawley rat animals. The results demonstrated that SF/GL/Ag-Au composite nanofiber scaffolds significantly accelerated wound closure, achieving a remarkable 99.58 % wound healing rate in the 21 days compared to control groups. In conclusion, our findings highlight that SF/GL/Ag-Au composite nanofiber scaffolds are highly suitable for wound dressing applications.

Enhancing Bioactivity of Nanofibrous Poly(Caprolactone)/45S5 Bioglass Composite Scaffolds by Incorporation of Ag, GO, and ZnO Nanoparticles.

The present study endeavors toward the investigation on the bioactivity of nanofibrous scaffolds manufactured by the electrospinning process. Nanofibrous composite scaffolds of PCL with 45S5 bioactive glass and metal oxide nanoparticles were developed and characterized. The effects of incorporating silver (Ag), graphene oxide (GO), and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles into PCL/bioglass nanofibrous scaffolds on its geometry and physiochemical, morphological, mechanical, and biological properties were studied. The incorporation of GO and ZnO alters the fiber diameter, suggesting the methodology for controlling the porosity of the scaffolds. The results of FTIR and XRD confirm the structure of bioglass, Ag, GO and ZnO nanoparticles. The in vitro degradation studies in SBF solution provide evidence for the enhancement in the rate of apatite formation by the inclusion of nanoparticles as compared with PCL/BG scaffolds. The assessment of mechanical properties suggests the tensile strength was increased from 1.61 to 5 MPa in PCL/BG/ZnO system when compared with pristine PCL. The cell viability is also observed to be improved from 72% to 91% and 104% for PCL/BG/GO and PCL/BG/ZnO, respectively. The hemolytic activity studies confirm that all scaffolds are nonhemolytic in nature and PCL/BG/ZnO exhibits the least hemolytic activity of 0.65% among the other composite scaffolds, suggesting the better blood compatibility. The present study evidently shows the fact that incorporation of GO and ZnO nanoparticles with PCL in addition to BG accelerates the bioactivity and improves the mechanical strength of the scaffold.

Optimization and evaluation of oxygen-plasma-modified, aligned, poly (Є-caprolactone) and silk fibroin nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration

The shortage of human donor corneas for transplantation necessitates the exploration of tissue engineering approaches to develop corneal substitutes. However, these substitutes must possess the necessary strength, transparency, and ability to regulate cell behaviour before they can be used in patients. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of an oxygen plasma surface-modified poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) combined with silk fibroin (SF) nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration. To fabricate the electrospun scaffolds, PCL and SF blends were used on a rotating mandrel. The optimization of the blend aimed to replicate the structural and functional properties of the human cornea, focusing on nanofibre alignment, mechanical characteristics, and in vitro cytocompatibility with human corneal stromal keratocytes. Surface modification of the scaffold resulted in improved transparency and enhanced cell interaction. Based on the evaluation, a composite nanofibrous scaffold with a 1:1 blend of PCL and SF was selected for a more comprehensive analysis. The biological response of keratocytes to the scaffold was assessed through cellular adhesion, proliferation, cytoskeletal organization, gene expression, and immunocytochemical staining. The scaffold facilitated the adhesion of corneal stromal cells, supporting cell proliferation, maintaining normal cytoskeletal organization, and promoting increased expression of genes associated with healthy corneal stromal keratocytes. These findings highlight the potential of a surface-modified PCL/SF blend (1:1) as a promising scaffolding material for corneal stromal regeneration. The developed scaffold not only demonstrated favourable biological interactions with corneal stromal cells but also exhibited characteristics aligned with the requirements for successful corneal tissue engineering. Further research and refinement of these constructs could lead to significant advancements in addressing the shortage of corneas for transplantation, ultimately improving the treatment outcomes for patients in need.

Preparation, characterization, and bioactivity of reinforced monetite with chitosan-gelatin electrospun composite scaffold for bone tissue engineering

In this study, chitosan-gelatin-monetite (CGM)-based electrospun scaffolds have been developed that closely mimicked the microstructure and chemical composition of the extracellular matrix of natural bone. CGM-based nanofibrous composite scaffolds were prepared with the help of the electrospinning technique, post-cross-linked using ethyl(dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide and N-hydroxysuccinimide solution to improve their stability in an aqueous environment. The prepared chitosan/gelatin (CG) scaffold showed an average fiber diameter of 308 ± 17 nm, whereas 5 and 7 wt% monetite containing CGM5 and CGM7 scaffolds, exhibited an average fiber diameter of 287 ± 13 and 265 ± 9 nm, respectively, revealing the fine distribution of monetite particles on the fibrous surface. The distribution of monetite nanoparticles onto the CG nanofibrous surface was confirmed using x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, and EDAX. Moreover, the addition of 7 wt% monetite into the CG electrospun matrix increased their ultimate tensile strength from 7.62 ± 0.13 MPa in the CG scaffold to 14.34 ± 0.39 MPa in the CGM7 scaffold. Simulated body fluid study and staining with alizarin red S (ARS) confirmed the higher mineralization ability of monetite-containing scaffolds compared to that revealed by the CG scaffold. The monetite incorporation into the CG matrix improved its osteogenic properties, including pre-osteoblast MG-63 cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, when seeded with the cells. A higher degree of cellular adhesion, spreading, and migration was observed on the monetite-incorporated CG scaffold than that on the CG scaffold. From 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) MTT assay, alkaline phosphatase activity, ARS staining, and immunocytochemistry study, the cultured cells discovered a more conducive microenvironment to proliferate and subsequently differentiate into osteoblast lineage in contact with CGM7 nanofibers rather than that in CGM0 and CGM5. In-vitro results indicated that electrospun CGM-based composite scaffolds could be used as a potential candidate to repair and regenerate new bone tissues.

A bilayer biocompatible polycaprolactone/zinc oxide/Capparis spinosa L. ethyl acetate extract/polylactic acid nanofibrous composite scaffold for novel wound dressing applications

Capparis spinosa L. (CSL) is used in traditional medicinal purposes for wound dressing because it contains natural phenolic and flavonoid active compounds. In the current study, a bilayer of biocompatible and mechanically stable nanofiber scaffolds with polycaprolactone (PCL)/zinc oxide and Capparis spinosa L. ethyl acetate extract (CSLE)/polylactic acid (PLA) layers was successfully prepared by an electrostatic spinning technique. Microstructural observations carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have shown that the nanofibers with a smooth surface are continuous and bead-free, and that the size distribution is uniform, with an average diameter of 314.15 nm. The results of careful observation further suggested that polymers in the nanofibers have excellent compatibility with drugs. The results of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy suggested that CSLE and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO) were successfully loaded in the nanofiber membranes. Water contact angle measurements revealed that the bilayer nanofiber membranes exhibited satisfactory wettability (outside layer, 130°; inner layer, 72.4°). Tensile testing showed that the bilayer PCL/ZnO-CSLE/PLA nanofibers remained unbroken until reaching 10.69 MPa, which is much higher than the tensile strengths of the individual layers or the individual components. Moreover, agar disk diffusion assessment confirmed that the bilayer nanofiber membranes obviously hindered bacterial growth. Cytotoxicity studies showed that the bilayer nanofiber membranes effectively accelerated cell proliferation. The investigated PCL/ZnO-CSLE/PLA bilayer nanofibers have potential for use as membranes for wound dressing applications.

Effect of molecular weight and content of polyvinylpyrrolidone on cell proliferation, loading capacity and properties of electrospun green tea essential oil-incorporated polyamide-6/polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibers

Electrospun nanofibers demonstrate a novel category of materials that display great potential in numerous biomedical applications including tissue engineering, drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and wound healing. Here, composite nanofibrous scaffolds of polyamide-6 (PA-6), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and tea tree oil (TTO) was fabricated by electrospinning method and the effect of various molecular weight of PVP on properties of produced fiber scaffolds was studied. The investigations showed that the increase in the molecular weight of PVP, as well as the decrease in its content provides the thinner fibers (220.90 ± 59.0 nm) with higher porosity (∼90%), high water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) (3945. g/m2.24 h), and low surface wettability (∼85°). The morphological investigation accomplished with scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed the uniform bead-free electrospun fibers scaffold. The structural characteristics of the produced scaffolds were investigated with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The results of the mechanical test of the produced fibers confirmed their ability to protect the wound area against external forces during the healing process. Antibacterial and antioxidant tests of samples containing TTO showed excellent and strong activities. Besides, the in vitro cytotoxicity, and cell adhesion was evaluated, that the obtained results illustrated that the electrospun fibers were biocompatible and supported cell adhesion. Based on the findings, this new electrospun matrix is expected to be effective as a potential wound dressing for skin regeneration.

Graphene Oxide/RhPTH(1-34)/Polylactide Composite Nanofibrous Scaffold for Bone Tissue Engineering.

Polylactide (PLA) is one of the most promising polymers that has been widely used for the repair of damaged tissues due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability. PLA composites with multiple properties, such as mechanical properties and osteogenesis, have been widely investigated. Herein, PLA/graphene oxide (GO)/parathyroid hormone (rhPTH(1-34)) nanofiber membranes were prepared using a solution electrospinning method. The tensile strength of the PLA/GO/rhPTH(1-34) membranes was 2.64 MPa, nearly 110% higher than that of a pure PLA sample (1.26 MPa). The biocompatibility and osteogenic differentiation test demonstrated that the addition of GO did not markedly affect the biocompatibility of PLA, and the alkaline phosphatase activity of PLA/GO/rhPTH(1-34) membranes was about 2.3-times that of PLA. These results imply that the PLA/GO/rhPTH(1-34) composite membrane may be a candidate material for bone tissue engineering.

Polyurethane-Calcium Peroxide Composite Nanofibrous Scaffolds with Controlled Oxygen Release for Tissue Engineering Applications

Cell survival of thick engineered scaffolds is often compromised due to limited oxygen diffusion. Therefore, the design of oxygen-delivering nanofibrous polyurethane (PU)-calcium peroxide (CPO) scaffolds was investigated in this study. The average size of CPO nanoparticles was [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm. The average diameter of PU fibers was [Formula: see text]m, which was increased to [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text]m upon incorporation of 0.1[Formula: see text]wt.%, 0.5[Formula: see text]wt.% and 1[Formula: see text]wt.% CPO, respectively. The CPO-containing scaffolds could produce oxygen for at least 13 days. Samples containing 0.5% CPO showed the highest oxygen release without a significant change in pH. For this sample, the addition of ascorbic acid as an antioxidant to counteract the possible formation of ROS, reduced the fiber diameter to [Formula: see text]m and increased the oxygen release. Adding 0.5% CPO improved the cell viability on the fifth day. In addition, the PU-CPO composite scaffold showed strong antibacterial activity. Overall, designed scaffolds could be useful in different tissue engineering applications to overcome the limited oxygen availability early after implantation.

Incorporating nanoconfined chitin-fibrils in poly (ε-caprolactone) membrane scaffolds improves mechanical and chemical properties for biomedical application.

Engineered composite scaffolds composed of natural and synthetic polymers exhibit cooperation at the molecular level that closely mimics tissue extracellular matrix's (ECM) physical and chemical characteristics. However, due to the lack of smooth intermix capability of natural and synthetic materials in the solution phase, bio-inspired composite material development has been quite challenged. In this research, we introduced new bio-inspired material blending techniques to fabricate nanofibrous composite scaffolds of chitin nanofibrils (CNF), a natural hydrophilic biomaterial and poly (ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL), a synthetic hydrophobic-biopolymer. CNF was first prepared by acid hydrolysis technique and dispersed in trifluoroethanol (TFE); and second, PCL was dissolved in TFE and mixed with the chitin solution in different ratios. Electrospinning and spin-coating technology were used to form nanofibrous mesh and films, respectively. Physicochemical properties, such as mechanical strength, and cellular compatibility, and structural parameters, such as morphology, and crystallinity, were determined. Toward the potential use of this composite materials as a support membrane in blood-brain barrier application (BBB), human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured, and transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) was measured. Experimental results of the composite materials with PCL/CNF ratios from 100/00 to 25/75 showed good uniformity in fiber morphology and suitable mechanical properties. They retained the excellent ECM-like properties that mimic synthetic-bio-interface that has potential application in biomedical fields, particularly tissue engineering and BBB applications.

Nano-hydroxyapatite/poly(L-lactic acid) nanofibrous composite scaffolds prepared by in-situ precipitation combined with frozen extraction

A series of nano-hydroxyapatite/polyl-lactic acid (n-HA/PLLA) three-dimensional nanofibrous composite scaffolds were synthesized by a new in-situ precipitation method combined with the frozen extraction using Ca(NO3)2·4H2O and (NH4)2HPO4 as the hydroxyapatite precursor. Combining SEM and XRD results showed that the HA nanoparticles were generated on the surface of the scaffolds and uniformly distributed throughout the material. The effects of the aging temperature and the amount of calcium phosphate solution on the morphology of resulting nanofiber composite scaffolds and fiber diameters were investigated. The results showed that uniform nanofibers were formed at low aging temperatures (−10 °C or less), while the fibers tended to flake and the support structure was more compact at high aging temperatures (5 °C or higher). The amount of added (NH4)2HPO4 had a similar effect on the nanofiber structure. The volume of the (NH4)2HPO4 solution and aging temperature used to prepare the composites also influenced the porosity, crystallinity, and mechanical properties of the final materials. In vitro bioactivity assays using simulated body fluid (SBF) showed that large amounts of low crystallinity carbonate hydroxyapatite (CHA) formed on the scaffolds after 14 days, indicating that the n-HA/PLLA nanofiber composite scaffolds have good bioactivity. This study shows that nHA effectively improved the biological activity of composite scaffolds.

Enhanced wound-healing capability with inherent antimicrobial activities of usnic acid incorporated poly(ε-caprolactone)/decellularized extracellular matrix nanofibrous scaffold

An extracellular matrix-mimicking, biodegradable tissue-engineered skin substitute with improved antibacterial, antibiofilm, and wound healing capabilities is essential in skin tissue regeneration applications. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel biodegradable composite nanofibrous poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)/decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) scaffolds loaded with usnic acid (UA); (PEU), where UA is employed as an antibacterial agent as well as a wound-healing accelerator. The architecture and fiber structure of the scaffolds were examined using scanning electron microscopy, and the results revealed that the average diameters decreased as the dECM content increased. The chemical composition, changes in the crystalline structure, homogeneity, and thermal stability of the nanofiber scaffolds with different material compositions were determined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The composite nanofibrous scaffolds exhibited strong antibacterial activity against various bacterial species, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mutans, and Cutibactrium acnes, and fungal pathogens (such as Candida albicans). Additionally, the composite nanofibrous scaffolds exhibited biofilm inhibition properties against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. An evaluation of the appearance of in vivo full-thickness excisional wounds treated with the composite nanofiber scaffolds, as well as a histological analysis of the wounds 21days after surgery, revealed that treatment with nanofibrous PEU scaffolds enhanced wound healing. This study reveals that the proposed composite nanofibrous PEU scaffold has substantial potential for treating infectious full-thickness wounds.

The impact of electroconductive multifunctional composite nanofibrous scaffold on adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

BackgroundThe development of tissue-engineered scaffolds with electrical properties is the primary motivation of novel regenerative medicine. Electroconductive scaffolds are designed to mimic the injured tissue environment's electrical properties and regulate cellular behavior - growth, proliferation, and differentiation - that could stimulate the injured nerve's regeneration. MethodsWe fabricated dedicated electroconductive scaffolds and customized an appropriate device with an external current supply to expose cells on the scaffold to electrical stimulation (ES). Next, we isolated rat adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and performed in vitro experiments that combine cells, an electroconductive scaffold, NGF (nerve growth factor), and ES (90 mV/mm, constant, for four days). Finally, we checked cellular activity as proliferation, viability, morphology, the neurogenic differentiation potential of ASCs, cell alignment, and karyotype. ResultsWe observed that the electrical stimulation did not change the viability and chromosome stability of rat ASCs, but altered slightly proliferation compared to non-stimulated cells. The combined effect of a scaffold, NGF, and ES caused morphology changes and enhancement of ASCs neuronal differentiation as indicated in βIII-tubulin expression, actin organization, and upregulation of neurogenic gene expression. ConclusionsWe developed an electroconductive scaffold and customized device for in vitro study with many experimental variants. Based on our results, we presumed that the established study scheme - including an electroconductive scaffold, NGF and ES - is biocompatible and could guide ASCs to differentiate in neurogenic lineage, thus may be potentially applied in nerve injury regeneration.

Electrospun Biomimetic Nanofibrous Scaffolds: A Promising Prospect for Bone Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine.

Skeletal-related disorders such as arthritis, bone cancer, osteosarcoma, and osteoarthritis are among the most common reasons for mortality in humans at present. Nanostructured scaffolds have been discovered to be more efficient for bone regeneration than macro/micro-sized scaffolds because they sufficiently permit cell adhesion, proliferation, and chemical transformation. Nanofibrous scaffolds mimicking artificial extracellular matrices provide a natural environment for tissue regeneration owing to their large surface area, high porosity, and appreciable drug loading capacity. Here, we review recent progress and possible future prospective electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. Electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds have demonstrated promising potential in bone tissue regeneration using a variety of nanomaterials. This review focused on the crucial role of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds in biological applications, including drug/growth factor delivery to bone tissue regeneration. Natural and synthetic polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds are extensively inspected to regenerate bone tissue. We focused mainly on the significant impact of nanofibrous composite scaffolds on cell adhesion and function, and different composites of organic/inorganic nanoparticles with nanofiber scaffolds. This analysis provides an overview of nanofibrous scaffold-based bone regeneration strategies; however, the same concepts can be applied to other organ and tissue regeneration tactics.

Preparation and characterization of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate)/gelatin composite nanofibrous

In order to compound gelatin (GEL) with poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) (P(3,4HB)) to improve the hydrophilicity and biocompatibility, a simple and convenient method for preparing P(3,4HB)/GEL composite nanofibrous (P/G-CNF) was proposed. Alkyl Polyglycoside (APG) was used as an emulsifier to prepare a stable P(3,4HB)/GEL composite solution, and novel P/G-CNF was prepared by electrospinning. The intermolecular interaction, micromorphology and porosity, crystallization and mechanical properties, hydrophilicity and cytocompatibility of P/G-CNF were characterized. The results reveal that P(3,4HB), APG and GEL form many hydrogen bonds. When the m(P(3,4HB):GEL) is 10:2, the as-prepared nanofibrous exhibit the best micromorphology with a diameter and porosity of 604 nm and 68.33%. With the increasing GEL content, the crystallization and mechanical properties of P(3,4HB)/GEL composite nanofibrous scaffold (P/G-CNS) are further enhanced and decline after reaching the maximum. The hydrophilicity of P/G-CNS is significantly improved by introducing GEL. The cell proliferation rate of P/G-CNS is higher than 100%, of which the cytotoxicity grade is 0, indicating that it is non-cytotoxic. The P/G-CNS has excellent cytocompatibility and provides better cell attachment, growth and proliferation, showing promising application prospects for tissue regeneration and biomedical materials.

Tri-Layered Doxycycline-, Collagen- and Bupivacaine-Loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Tendon Rupture Repair.

Achilles tendon rupture is a severe injury, and its optimal therapy remains controversial. Tissue engineering scaffolds play a significant role in tendon healing and tissue regeneration. In this study, we developed tri-layered doxycycline/collagen/bupivacaine (DCB)-composite nanofibrous scaffolds to repair injured Achilles tendons. Doxycycline, collagen, and bupivacaine were integrated into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanofibrous membranes, layer by layer, using an electrospinning technique as healing promoters, a 3D scaffold, and painkillers, respectively. After spinning, the properties of the nanofibrous scaffolds were characterized. In vitro drug discharge behavior was also evaluated. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the DCB–PLGA-composite nanofibers in repairing ruptured Achilles tendons was investigated in an animal tendon model with histological analyses. The experimental results show that, compared to the pristine PLGA nanofibers, the biomolecule-loaded nanofibers exhibited smaller fiber size distribution and an enhanced hydrophilicity. The DCB-composite nanofibers provided a sustained release of doxycycline and bupivacaine for over 28 days in vivo. Additionally, Achilles tendons repaired using DCB-composite nanofibers exhibited a significantly higher maximum load-to-failure than normal tendons, suggesting that the biomolecule-incorporated nanofibers are promising scaffolds for repairing Achilles tendons.