Enhanced integrin-mediated adhesion and proliferation of Schwann cells using highly aligned, dual-functional fibrous...

Developing biomaterials that combine tunable mechanical properties with precise biochemical functionalization is critical for advancing peripheral nerve regeneration. Here, we report the synthesis and characterization of a novel family of allyl-containing semi-aromatic polycaprolactone copolymers, synthesized via a one-pot ring-opening copolymerization. By varying monomer composition, copolymers possessing a range of thermal and mechanical properties were obtained. Aligned fiber scaffolds were fabricated by touch-spinning and functionalized with bioactive peptides RGD and YIGSR via strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition and thiol-ene click chemistries, yielding dual-functionalized fiber scaffolds with spatiotemporal control of functionalization densities. Schwann cell cultures revealed enhanced 67 kDa laminin receptor activity on YIGSR-functionalized scaffolds and significantly increased proliferation on softer materials decorated with peptides, demonstrating the synergistic influence of matrix mechanics and bioactive cues. This modular platform offers tunable scaffold properties and controlled biochemical functionalization to elicit favorable Schwann cell responses, providing a promising strategy for next-generation nerve regeneration materials.