Long-Gap Sciatic Nerve Regeneration Using 3D-Printed Nerve Conduits with Controlled FGF-2 Release.

ABSTRACT: Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) by transection require reconstructive surgery, often with highly variable results and persistent sensory and motor deficits. Three-dimensional (3D) printing enables the biofabrication of nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) with the ability to release neurotrophic factors, showing therapeutic potential. We developed a 3D printing process of NGCs using polycaprolactone (PCL) and gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) integrated with a thermostable fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2). The synthesized GelMA at 10% (w/v) concentration showed superior rheological, mechanical, and ultrastructural characteristics, ensuring 3D printing fidelity. Incorporating FGF-2 into GelMA resulted in a controlled release pattern over 30 days along with biocompatibility and an increase of metabo

SUBMITTER: Rodriguez-Sanchez DN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12278209 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature