Enhanced Piezoelectric Performance of PVDF-TrFE Nanofibers through Annealing for Tissue Engineering Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Bioelectric stimulation is crucial for tissue regeneration.
• Poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) (PVDF-TrFE) exhibits piezoelectric properties relevant for tissue engineering.
• Optimizing scaffold properties is key to enhancing regenerative potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of annealing temperature on PVDF-TrFE scaffold properties.
• To assess the impact of enhanced piezoelectricity on tissue regeneration.
• To evaluate the biocompatibility and physiological relevance of annealed scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• Annealing PVDF-TrFE scaffolds at various temperatures (80°C-140°C).
• Material characterization using DSC, FTIR, XRD, and SEM.
• Mechanical testing for elastic modulus, tensile strength, and stiffness.
• In vitro studies with Schwann cells and in vivo foreign body response assessment in mice.

Main Results:

• Annealing at 140°C maximized β-phase content, crystallinity, and piezoelectric response.
• SEM revealed enhanced lamellar structures and porosity in 140°C annealed scaffolds.
• Mechanical properties of 140°C scaffolds matched physiological soft tissues.
• In vitro studies showed improved Schwann cell proliferation, attachment, and ECM production.
• In vivo tests indicated no adverse foreign body response.

Conclusions:

• Annealing PVDF-TrFE scaffolds significantly enhances their piezoelectric and mechanical properties.
• Optimized scaffolds promote favorable cellular responses essential for tissue regeneration.
• These findings support the potential of annealed PVDF-TrFE scaffolds for advanced tissue repair applications.