Pure-silk fibroin hydrogel with stable aligned micropattern toward peripheral nerve regeneration

Successful repair of long-distance peripheral nerve injuries remains a challenge in the clinic. Rapid axon growth is a key to accelerate nerve regeneration. Herein, a pure silk fibroin (SF) hydrogel with a combination of high-strength and aligned microgrooved topographic structure is reported. The hydrogels exhibit excellent mechanical properties with high strength. Good biocompatibility also allows the hydrogels to support cell survival. Significantly, the hydrogel with aligned microgrooved structures enables the aligned growth of Schwann cells. Moreover, the hydrogel holds a strong capacity for promoting axon growth and guiding neurite sprouting. Thus, this micropatterned SF hydrogel would have great potential for peripheral nerve regeneration.

Automated summary

The pure silk fibroin hydrogel with high strength and aligned microgrooved structure showed excellent mechanical properties and good biocompatibility. The aligned microgrooved structure enabled the aligned growth of Schwann cells, promoting axon growth and guiding neurite sprouting. This micropatterned SF hydrogel has great potential for peripheral nerve regeneration.