In vitro evaluation of polyester-based scaffolds seeded with adipose derived stem cells for peripheral nerve regeneration

To overcome the disadvantages of autografts for peripheral nerve repair, different methods such as artificial nerve conduits have been investigated for an alternative approach. This study demonstrated that solvent casting is a simple but efficient method to create thin polyester-based scaffolds for stem cell delivery. Using poly (ε-caprolactone) and poly (D,L-lactic acid), we produced scaffold films containing heterogenous depressions (pits) on the air surface with a size ranging from 0.5 to 30 μm². These scaffolds were moderately hydrophobic; however, they supported the differentiation of adipose derived stem cells (ADSC) into a Schwann cell-like phenotype. The differentiated ADSC (dADSC) expressed S100 protein and glial fibrillary acidic protein and readily adhered to the films and proliferated at a similar rate to those cultured on tissue culture polystyrene. Cells were also positive for proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Furthermore, dADSC retained functional activity and significantly enhanced neurite outgrowth from dorsal root ganglia neurons. This study suggests polymer scaffolds combined with dADSCs could be a promising therapy for peripheral nerve injuries.