VPA/PLGA microfibers produced by coaxial electrospinning for the treatment of central nervous system injury

The study explores a new approach to treat spinal cord injuries (SCI) using a combination of biomaterials and bioactive substances. The researchers focused on valproic acid (VPA), a drug known to aid functional recovery in animal models of SCI. They encapsulated VPA within poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microfibers using a technique called coaxial electrospinning. The created VPA/PLGA microfibers were tested for their ability to support cell growth and their impact on PC12 cells, a cell line used in neurophysiological studies. The microfibers were then implanted into rats after SCI to observe their effect on functional recovery and tissue regeneration. While the microfibers showed good compatibility with cells in vitro and supported cell attachment and growth, the in vivo results did not demonstrate a significant improvement in functional recovery or tissue regeneration in the rats compared to the control group. The researchers suggest that the VPA/PLGA microfibers may be a promising approach when combined with other strategies.

• 1
  VPA was successfully encapsulated in PLGA microfibers using coaxial electrospinning, creating fibers with suitable morphology and mechanical characteristics for SCI applications.
• 2
  The VPA/PLGA microfibers supported the adhesion, viability, and proliferation of PC12 cells in vitro, demonstrating cytocompatibility.
• 3
  In vivo implantation of the VPA/PLGA microfibers in rats after SCI did not result in increased functional recovery or tissue regeneration compared to the control group.