Fabrication and Evaluation of Electrospun Polycaprolactone / Gelatin Scaffolds Containing Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Applicable for Nerve Tissue Engineering

Electrospinning-based polymer scaffolds represent a promising avenue for addressing nerve tissue damage, particularly over extended distances, by furnishing a nanostructured environment that mimics natural extracellular matrix (ECM) features. This study aimed to develop a scaffold possessing requisite nerve tissue characteristics. Poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL), chosen for its biocompatibility, flexibility, mechanical strength, and drug delivery capabilities, was combined with gelatin to counteract PCL's hydrophobic nature and slow degradation rate. Various PCL/gelatin scaffold compositions were prepared, and SEM, mechanical, and contact angle tests were conducted to assess scaffold properties. Optimal composition (PCL:gelatin at ۷۰:۳۰ ratio) was determined. Next, multi-walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with hydroxyl groups (MWCNT-OH) were added to enhance conductivity and decrease fiber diameter. SEM, mechanical, and conductivity tests were performed, revealing an optimal MWCNT-OH concentration (۰.۵%). Subsequently, retinoic acid was incorporated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) into the scaffold to bolster nerve differentiation, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and cell adhesion. Drug release and biodegradability tests demonstrated satisfactory results, with the PGCR۱ scaffold exhibiting notable improvements. MTT and cell staining assays confirmed biocompatibility across all samples, with PGCR۱ demonstrating enhanced cell adhesion attributed to retinoic acid's influence on cellular processes. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of electrospun PCL/gelatin scaffolds supplemented with MWCNT-OH and retinoic acid for nerve tissue engineering applications.

کلیدواژه ها:

Poly (ε-caprolactone) ، gelatin ، nerve tissue ، nanofibers ، retinoic acid