Electrospun
poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) fiber scaffolds
are used to direct axonal extension in neural engineering models.
We aimed to improve the efficacy of these fibers in promoting neurite
outgrowth by altering surface topography and reducing fiber elastic
modulus through the incorporation of a compatibilized blend, poly-l-lactic acid-poly(pentadecalactone) (PLLA–PPDL) into
the solution prior to electrospinning. PLLA+PLLA–PPDL fibers
had a larger diameter, increased surface nanotopography, and lower
glass transition temperature than PLLA fibers but had similar mechanical
properties. Increases in neurite outgrowth on PLLA+PLLA–PPDL
fibers were observed, potentially due to the significantly increased
diameter and surface coverage with nanotopography. Ultimately, these
results suggest that greater electrospun fiber diameter and surface
topography may contribute to increases in neurite outgrowth.
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