Three-dimensional bioprinting sodium alginate/gelatin scaffold combined with neural stem cells and oligodendrocytes markedly promoting nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury

This study explores a new method for treating spinal cord injuries (SCI) using 3D bioprinting. The approach involves creating a scaffold made of sodium alginate and gelatin, loaded with neural stem cells and oligodendrocytes. The scaffold is designed to support nerve regeneration by providing a structure for cells to grow and by helping to rebuild the myelin sheath, which is essential for nerve signaling. The researchers transplanted this 3D-printed scaffold into rats with completely severed spinal cords to see if it could improve nerve regeneration and motor function. The results showed that the 3D bioprinting scaffold significantly improved the hindlimb motor function and promoted nerve regeneration, suggesting it is a promising carrier for cell transplantation to enhance spinal cord repair after injury.

• 1
  The 3D bioprinting scaffold loaded with neural stem cells (NSCs) and oligodendrocytes (OLGs) markedly promoted the recovery of motor function after complete-transection spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats.
• 2
  Transplantation of the 3D bioprinting scaffold with NSCs and OLGs improved nerve regeneration in SCI rats, as evidenced by increased expression of Tuj-1 and reduced reactive astrogliosis.
• 3
  The 3D bioprinting scaffold with NSCs and OLGs promoted myelinization and regeneration of axons, with a significantly higher number of NF-positive, MBP-positive, and 5-HT-positive cells observed at the lesion site.