Curcumin-Loaded HA-Based Nerve Guidance Conduit with PLA Microfibers-Filled Lumen Enhances Schwann Cell Proliferation and Alignment

TL;DR

A new nerve guidance conduit made with curcumin and microfibers helps Schwann cells grow and align, improving nerve regeneration.

Contribution

A novel hyaluronic acid-based conduit with curcumin and PLA microfibers is developed to enhance Schwann cell behavior.

Findings

Curcumin released from the hydrogel promotes Schwann cell proliferation.

PLA microfibers guide Schwann cell alignment in a parallel pattern.

The conduit creates an optimal environment for peripheral nerve regeneration.

Abstract

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) represent a significant
health
challenge for society, as they can result in lifelong disabilities.
Despite the rapid advancement of tissue engineering technology, the
regeneration of peripheral nerves through nerve guidance conduits
(NGCs) remains less favorable than the gold standard treatment, nerve
autografts. Consequently, improving the effectiveness of NGCs is essential.
The objective of this study was to develop a more effective nerve
guidance conduit. To achieve this, hyaluronic acid tubular scaffolds
were loaded with curcumin, which has been shown to promote peripheral
nerve regeneration, and filled with polylactic acid microfibers to
encourage directed growth. A physicochemical characterization of this
novel NGC was performed to ensure a thorough understanding of its
structural features and performance characteristics. The impact of
curcumin and PLA microfibers on Schwann cells, a crucial player in
nerve regeneration, was evaluated. The sustained release of curcumin
from the hyaluronic hydrogel was observed to enhance the proliferation
of Schwann cells, which aligned themselves in a parallel fashion with
the PLA microfibers. The proliferation and alignment of these cells
within the NGC provides an optimal environment for the regeneration
of nerves.

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