Decellularized nerve matrix hydrogel scaffolds with longitudinally oriented and size-tunable microchannels for...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Scaffolding biomaterials and their microstructures are vital for creating growth-permissive environments in tissue regeneration.
• Functional bioscaffolds require extracellular matrix components and topological guidance mimicking native tissue ultrastructure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce longitudinally oriented microchannel structures into decellularized nerve matrix hydrogels (pDNM-G) to create aligned pDNM-G (A-pDNM-G) bioscaffolds.
• To evaluate the efficacy of A-pDNM-G scaffolds in promoting peripheral nerve regeneration both in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of decellularized nerve matrix hydrogel from porcine sciatic nerve (pDNM-G).
• Introduction of axially aligned microchannels into pDNM-G via controlled unidirectional freeze-drying to form A-pDNM-G.
• In vitro assessment of neurite extension and Schwann cell migration using dorsal root ganglion explants.
• In vivo implantation of A-pDNM-G nerve guidance conduits in rat sciatic nerve defects, with and without nerve growth factor.

Main Results:

• A-pDNM-G scaffolds demonstrated effective direction and promotion of neurite extension and Schwann cell migration in vitro.
• In vivo studies showed that A-pDNM-G conduits significantly facilitated axonal extension, myelination, and functional recovery in 15-mm rat sciatic nerve defects.
• Incorporation of nerve growth factor further enhanced the regenerative performance of the grafted nerves.

Conclusions:

• Axially aligned microchannels in pDNM-G bioscaffolds provide effective topological cues for peripheral nerve regeneration.
• A-pDNM-G scaffolds show significant potential for clinical applications in treating peripheral nerve injuries.
• The bioactive nature of pDNM-G allows for controlled neurotrophic factor release and integration of structural guidance for implantable bioscaffolds.