Regulation of Schwann Cell and DRG Neurite Behaviors within Decellularized Peripheral Nerve Matrix

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c20320
• Publication Date: 2022-02-11T20:49:26Z
• Authors: Wen Xue; Yunfan Kong; Rafay Abu; Pooja Roy; Sung-Ho Huh; Mitchell Kuss; Vikas Kumar; Bin Duan
• Keywords: Decellularization; Neurite; Dorsal root ganglion; Schwann cell

Decellularized nerve hydrogels (dNHs) containing bioactive molecules are promising biomaterials for peripheral injury (PNI) treatment and have been extensively applied in clinical preclinical practice. However, most previous research projects studied their influences on nerve-related cellular behaviors two dimensions (2D) without taking hydrogel biomechanics into consideration. The molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial microenvironment provided by dNHs also remain unclear. In this study, from rat sciatic nerves were prepared, effects Schwann cell (SC) dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurite evaluated compared to commercial tail type I collagen (Col) three-dimensional (3D) environments. We found that could promote SC proliferation outgrowth, both mechanics components contributed dNH functionalization. Through proteomics analysis, we laminin (LAM) V (COLV) exclusively abundantly existed dNHs. By adding exogenous LAM COLV Col hydrogels, demonstrated they regulated gene expression spreading while improved proliferation. Lastly, fabricated paper-like, aligned scaffolds through unidirectional freezing expand applications PNI treatment.