C10716: Implantable Multilayer 3D Scaffold for Neuronal Regeneration Applications
Value Proposition:The multilayer 3D conduit is a superior candidate for nerve repair and clinical regeneration applications.
• The novel wall structure made of double-sided fibers increases the opportunities for cell migration so that more cells populate the regenerating tissue faster in order to restore functional recovery more quickly and facilitate a faster healing response.
• This 3D scaffold is composed of one biocompatible, FDA-approved polymer, which makes it considerably easier to fabricate than co-polymer composed constructs and reduces the risk for immune reactions.
• The multilayer composition of the scaffold can provide adequate mechanical support to the regenerating neuronal tissue, but is not too rigid to cause additional damage to the cord by mechanical abrasion, so that regenerating tissue can integrate effectively and functionally with undamaged nerve tissue.
• Unique 3D shapes in the lumen provide enough space for regenerating neurons to penetrate the fiber channels and increases the surface area of contact for regenerating axons to maximize tissue reconstruction.
Technical Details:Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) can result in catastrophic loss of function. In the US, ~ 450,000 people live with SCI. Traumatic peripheral nerve injury (TPNI) can result from multiple causes, including battle wounds. Ongoing neuroscience research focuses on ways to improve nervous tissue regeneration, including development of innovative biomaterials. Implantable scaffolds composed of aligned polymer fibers have shown considerable promise in directing regenerating axons in vitro and in vivo. Highly aligned polymer fibers are necessary for neural tissue engineering applications to ensure that axonal extension occurs efficiently through a regenerating environment. The inventors have developed a scaffold and a method of making an implantable scaffold using highly aligned electrospun polymer fibers in a multilayered three-dimensional implantable structure that retains the fiber alignment. Animal models of nerve injury that were implanted with aligned fiber multilayer 3D scaffold showed robust guided axonal regeneration compared to control.
Looking for Partners:This technology can be commercialized as a biocompatible, implantable tubular scaffold for tissue regeneration, especially nervous tissue regeneration. Published as: Hurtado A, et al. Robust CNS regeneration after complete spinal cord transection using aligned poly-l-lactic acid microfibers. Biomaterials. 2011 May 31.
