Aligned Fibrous PVDF-TrFE Scaffolds with Schwann Cells Support Neurite Extension and Myelination In Vitro

J Neural Eng, 2018 · DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aac77f · Published: October 1, 2018

Simple Explanation

This study investigates a specific material, PVDF-TrFE, formed into aligned fibers, to support the growth of Schwann cells (SCs). SCs are important for nerve repair and regeneration. The material's structure and electrical properties could help stimulate spinal cord axon regeneration. The research looks at how well these PVDF-TrFE scaffolds support SC growth and how the SCs, in turn, help nerve fibers (neurites) extend and form myelin, which is crucial for nerve function. The scaffolds are tested with and without a coating called Matrigel to see if it enhances the process. The study's findings suggest that this combination of aligned PVDF-TrFE fibers and SCs could be a promising strategy for repairing spinal cord injuries by promoting nerve regeneration and myelination.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Sprague-Dawley rats, Female Fischer rats

Evidence Level

In vitro study

Key Findings

1
PVDF-TrFE scaffolds support the growth of SCs and the extension of neurites. Coating the scaffolds with Matrigel further enhances this growth and extension.
2
SCs align themselves along the length of the aligned fibers, and neurites extend along with them, indicating the scaffold provides directional guidance.
3
SCs in co-culture with DRGs on PVDF-TrFE scaffolds promote longer neurite extension, and also form myelin around the DRG neurites.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates that PVDF-TrFE scaffolds with aligned fibers can support the extension of SC-neurites and myelination, suggesting their potential in spinal cord repair. The electrospinning technique was used to fabricate the scaffolds with fiber diameters of approximately 1.5 microns, promoting neurite extension and SC attachment. Coating the PVDF-TrFE scaffold with Matrigel promoted SC growth, significantly increased SC-neurite extension, and supported myelination, enhancing its potential for nerve regeneration.

Practical Implications

Spinal Cord Repair Strategy

The combination of SCs and PVDF-TrFE scaffolds shows promise as a tissue engineering strategy for spinal cord repair.

Directional Axon Regeneration

Aligned fibers in the scaffold may promote directional axon regeneration, which can restore the original anatomical structure of nerve fibers after injury.

Biomaterial for Myelination

Electrospun PVDF-TrFE scaffolds may be a promising biomaterial for SC-supported myelination, which is critical for restoring functional recovery after SCI.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to in vitro experiments, and in vivo studies are needed to validate the findings.
2
Matrigel, derived from mouse tumor cells, has limited potential for clinical translation.
3
Further optimization of SC seeding density is needed to determine the best conditions for axon regeneration.

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