Recent advances in PLLA-based biomaterial scaffolds for neural tissue engineering: Fabrication, modification, and applications

Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 2022 · DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1011783 · Published: November 1, 2022

Biomedical Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

Neural tissue injuries pose significant challenges, and tissue engineering (TE) offers a potential solution using biocompatible materials. Poly-L-lactic-acid (PLLA) is a widely used material in TE due to its mechanical properties and surface modification capabilities. PLLA-based scaffolds can mimic the extracellular matrix of neural tissue, modulate inflammation, and facilitate neurite extension, making them promising for nerve repair and regeneration.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Electrospun PLLA scaffolds, especially those with aligned nanofibers, promote nerve cell proliferation, guide neurite extension, and modulate macrophage polarization towards anti-inflammation.
2
Thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) provides PLLA-based scaffolds with appropriate microstructures to promote nerve cell growth and maintain their functions.
3
Additive manufacturing (AM) offers a promising way to build a PLLA-based scaffold with enhanced precision and control over architecture.

Research Summary

This mini-review summarizes fabrication and modification techniques for PLLA-based biomaterial scaffolds in neural tissue engineering. It presents recent applications in peripheral nerve and spinal cord regeneration and suggests future improvements for more effective PLLA-based nerve scaffolds. PLLA-based materials have advantages in neural TE due to biocompatibility, biodegradability, tunable microstructures, and adjustable surface properties.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Nerve Regeneration

PLLA scaffolds combined with aligned nanofibers and growth factors can significantly improve nerve cell proliferation and neurite extension.

Personalized Treatment

Additive manufacturing allows for the creation of personalized PLLA scaffolds tailored to specific patient needs and injury sites.

Improved Spinal Cord Repair

Multichannel PLLA scaffolds can alleviate inflammation, recruit endogenous stem cells, and facilitate axonal growth in spinal cord injuries.

Study Limitations

1
The deeper biochemical and biophysiological mechanisms behind neural tissue repair and regeneration need further investigation.
2
Clinical effects of PLLA-based scaffolds for neural TE should be assessed in larger mammals.
3
Electrical conductivity of PPy needs to be enhanced/sustained.

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