Schwann cell (SC) transplantation represents a promising
therapeutic
approach for traumatic spinal cord injury but is frustrated by barrier
formation, preventing cell migration, and axonal regeneration at the
interface between grafted SCs and reactive resident astrocytes (ACs).
Although regenerating axons successfully extend into SC grafts, only
a few cross the SC–AC interface to re-enter lesioned neuropil.
To date, research has focused on identifying and modifying the molecular
mechanisms underlying such scarring cell–cell interactions,
while the influence of substrate topography remains largely unexplored.
Using a recently modified cell confrontation assay to model SC–AC
barrier formation in vitro, highly oriented poly(ε-caprolactone)
nanofibers were observed to reduce AC reactivity, induce extensive
oriented intermingling between SCs and ACs, and ultimately enable
substantial neurite outgrowth from the SC compartment into the AC
territory. It is anticipated that these findings will have important
implications for the future design of biomaterial-based scaffolds
for nervous tissue repair.
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