Applications of aligned nanofiber for tissue engineering

TL;DR

Aligned nanofibers mimic natural tissue structures and are crucial in tissue engineering, aiding cell behaviors and tissue regeneration across various organs, with ongoing research addressing challenges and enhancing their efficacy.

Contribution

This review comprehensively summarizes current applications, effects, and future prospects of aligned nanofibers in tissue engineering across multiple tissue types.

Findings

Aligned nanofibers promote cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation.

In vivo trials demonstrate safety and efficacy of nanofiber scaffolds.

Enhancements with growth factors improve tissue regeneration.

Abstract

In tissue engineering, we seek to address comprehensive tissue repair and regeneration needs. Aligned nanofibers have emerged as powerful and versatile tools, attributable to their structural and biochemical congruence with the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). This review delineates the contemporary applications of aligned nanofibers in tissue engineering, spotlighting their implementation across musculoskeletal, neural, and cardiovascular tissue domains. The influence of fiber alignment on critical cellular behaviors - cell adhesion, migration, orientation, and differentiation - is reviewed. We also discuss how nanofibers are improved by adding growth factors, peptides, and drugs to help tissues regenerate better. Comprehensive analyses of in vivo trials and clinical studies corroborate the efficacy and safety of these fibers in tissue engineering applications. The review culminates with exploring extant challenges, concurrently charting prospective avenues in aligned nanofiber-centric tissue engineering.