Nerve Cell Responses to Biocompatible RGO-Chitosan-CMC Nanofiber Composite Membranes

Peripheral nerve injuries are common traumas that are difficult to overcome. Although nerve grafting can quickly recover nearly all sensitivity and function, graft availability remains an issue. Research has focused on ways to directly rebuild and promote the healing of damaged nerves using surgically implanted scaffolds. Nerve regeneration can be further promoted through strategies aimed at enhancing the regenerative microenvironment, such as improving the electrical conductivity of nerve guidance conduits. In this study, composite films of chitosan (Ch) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) nanofibers were prepared. To improve the films' conductivity, reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was added. Structural analysis indicated interactions between Ch and CMC and showed that incorporation of RGO did not produce additional detectable crystalline phases. ChCMCRGO films showed slightly higher conductivity and greater surface hydrophilicity than ChCMC membranes and supported greater neurite outgrowth.