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Conductive nerve conduit with piezoelectric properties for enhanced PC12 differentiation
Hamideh Javidi1, Ahmad Ramazani Saadatabadi2, S K Sadrnezhaad3
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
Scientific Reports
|July 25, 2023
Summary
This study presents a novel core/shell nerve guidance conduit designed to enhance nerve regeneration. The engineered conduit successfully promoted PC12 cell differentiation, showing promise for nerve tissue repair.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Neuroscience
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Nerve tissue restoration is hindered by limited regeneration and fibrosis.
- Novel nerve guidance channels are crucial for promoting nerve repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel core/shell conduit for inducing PC12 cell differentiation.
- To assess the potential of this conduit in enhancing nerve regeneration.
Main Methods:
- A core/shell conduit was fabricated using co-electrospinning of polycaprolactone/polyvinylidene fluoride (PCL/PVDF), gelatin, and polyaniline/graphene (PAG) nanocomposite for the shell.
- The core was filled with a chitosan-gelatin hydrogel incorporating PAG and ZnO nanoparticles.
- PC12 cell differentiation was analyzed using Nestin and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) markers via immunocytochemistry and PCR-RT.
Main Results:
- The developed conduit exhibited antibacterial activity, electrical conductivity, and piezoelectric properties.
- Significant induction of Nestin and MAP2 gene expression in PC12 cells was observed.
- The conduit effectively promoted PC12 cell differentiation.
Conclusions:
- The novel core/shell conduit is a promising strategy for nerve regeneration.
- The conduit's properties support cell differentiation and potentially overcome regeneration barriers.
- This engineered material offers a viable option for advancing nerve repair therapies.
