VEGF release from a polymeric nanofiber scaffold for improved angiogenesis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Angiogenesis is crucial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
• Developing scaffolds that support controlled release of growth factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is essential for enhancing angiogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create an electrospun fiber scaffold for controlled release of recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor (rhVEGF).
• To investigate the effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG) concentration on scaffold pore size, rhVEGF release kinetics, and endothelial cell behavior.

Main Methods:

• Core-shell fibers were fabricated using co-electrospinning with polyethylene oxide (core) and polycaprolactone (shell).
• Varying concentrations of PEG (0.25%, 1%, 3%) were incorporated into the shell to modify pore characteristics.
• rhVEGF was loaded into the core, and its release profile was analyzed.
• Endothelial cell migration assays and subcutaneous implantation in a mouse model were used to evaluate scaffold performance.

Main Results:

• Higher PEG concentrations increased scaffold pore size and density.
• rhVEGF release exhibited an initial burst followed by sustained release (4h for 3% PEG, 18h for 0.25% and 1% PEG).
• rhVEGF-loaded scaffolds demonstrated an 80-fold increase in endothelial cell migration compared to controls.
• In vivo studies showed significant enhancement of blood vessel formation within 14 days in scaffolds containing rhVEGF.

Conclusions:

• The developed core-shell electrospun scaffold effectively supports rhVEGF release and promotes angiogenesis.
• This novel scaffold shows significant potential for vascular tissue engineering applications.
• The findings suggest clinical relevance for treating vascular-deficient wounds.