Hydrogel based three-dimensional scaffolds for nerve regeneration

Xiaojun Yu, Amit Balgude, Ravi V. Bellamkonda

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Anatomical and functional reconstruction of severed peripheral and central nerves remains a challenge to clinicians today. Our laboratory is interested in developing 3D hydrogel based scaffolds whose design is motivated by strategies used by the fetal nervous system for nerve guidance and cell migration. These three-dimensional scaffolds have the potential to serve at 3D `bridges' for the regeneration of PNS and CNS nerves when they present appropriate bioactive cues. However, currently the behavior of neurite in 3D matrices and at 3D interfaces remains poorly understood. Using specific agarose hydrogel formulations, one can present controlled charge, mechanical and interface conditions to extending PNS and CNS processes and the corresponding response can be quantified. The effect of mechanical and charge barriers to growth cone extension across 3D interfaces is presented. In addition, cytoskeletal protein organization in 3D cultures is quite different from cells growing on flat 2D membranes. Confocal and time-lapse studies of growth cone motility and shape in two and three dimensional cultures reveal important differences. The results of these studies are useful in understanding the mechanisms of 3D neurite extension and can serve as inputs for the design of optimal 3D `bridges' for nerve regeneration.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAnnual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology - Proceedings
Pages1331
Number of pages1
StatePublished - 1999
EventProceedings of the 1999 IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology 21st Annual Conference and the 1999 Fall Meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society (1st Joint BMES / EMBS) - Atlanta, GA, USA
Duration: 13 Oct 199916 Oct 1999

Publication series

NameAnnual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology - Proceedings
Volume2
ISSN (Print)0589-1019

Conference

ConferenceProceedings of the 1999 IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology 21st Annual Conference and the 1999 Fall Meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society (1st Joint BMES / EMBS)
CityAtlanta, GA, USA
Period13/10/9916/10/99

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