Application of PLGA/FGF-2 Coaxial Microfibers in Spinal Cord Tissue Engineering: an in Vitro and in Vivo Investigation

Abstract

Aim: Scaffolds are a promising approach for spinal cord injury (SCI) treatment. FGF-2 is involved in tissue repair but is easily degradable and presents collateral effects in systemic administration. In order to address the stability issue and avoid the systemic effects, FGF-2 was encapsulated into core–shell microfibers by coaxial electrospinning and its in vitro and in vivo potential were studied. Materials & methods: The fibers were characterized by physicochemical and biological parameters. The scaffolds were implanted in a hemisection SCI rat model. Locomotor test was performed weekly for 6 weeks. After this time, histological analyses were performed and expression of nestin and GFAP was quantified by flow cytometry. Results: Electrospinning resulted in uniform microfibers with a core–shell structure, with a sustained liberation of FGF-2 from the fibers. The fibers supported PC12 cells adhesion and proliferation. Implanted scaffolds into SCI promoted locomotor recovery at 28 days after injury and reduced GFAP expression. Conclusion: These results indicate the potential of these microfibers in SCI tissue engineering. [Formula: see text]

Tailoring synthetic polymeric biomaterials towards nerve tissue engineering: a review

“…For instance, Reis et al synthesized core-shell PLGA microfibers and encapsulated FGF-2 into these structure by coaxial electrospinning. They found that PLGA/FGF-2 coaxial microfibers supported attachment and proliferation of PC12 cells as well as improved locomotor recovery after 28 days in a rat model of SCI [109].…”

Nanotechnology for the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

“…PLA scaffolds produced by electrospinning maintained neuronal survival, promoted the spread of neurites, reduced tissue damage, and increased axonal regeneration. 70 Similarly, PLGA can be electrospun to form scaffolds that function as bridges 72,73 or to form microparticles used as drug delivery systems to the injured spinal cord. PLGA fibers promote axonal regeneration and when associated with drugs or growth factors, improve motor function.…”

“…PLGA fibers promote axonal regeneration and when associated with drugs or growth factors, improve motor function. [72][73][74][75] PCL is a polymer that presents a more lengthy degradation cycle, allowing it to be implemented as a scaffold for cell transplantation and for better integration of the transplanted cells in the host tissue. 63 Some of the studies applied coaxial electrospinning, which is one of the most successful technologies for incorporating biomolecules in scaffolds.…”

Simultaneous Regeneration of Bone and Nerves Through Materials and Architectural Design: Are We There Yet?

“…Enhanced peripheral nerve regeneration had been achieved by injection of neurotrophic factors into the lumen of nerve conduits or tethering growth factors on the conduit walls. [234,235] Concerns over the use of growth factors include their safety, effectiveness, high cost, as well as their side effects. The latter are related to adverse interference of biological signals, which induces abnormal immune responses.…”