Using 3d printing neural scaffold for a new generation of nerve therapy

According to a new study,3d printing may act as a powerful tool in neural tissue engineering.Degenerative disease is a major cause of nerve injury or trauma.Nerve regeneration, and also is the regeneration of the nervous tissue, cell or cell products or repair,Can help repair the damage.However, the repair of large area damage is a very challenging task.

3d printing neural scaffold

At George Washington university scientists have discovered that a 3 d print nerve scaffold with low energy laser therapy (LLLT) on their will "create a new strategy to repair nerve degeneration".

The researchers modified a SLA 3 d printers
According to the study, 3 d printing is a very attractive for tissue regeneration choice, because it can control the placement of functional components from the space, to produce a complex 3 d scaffolds.This process provides a design feasibility for specific patients, make the researchers for a specific injury custom 3 d printing implants, which further increased the probability of a full recovery.

In addition, compared with the traditional support methods, 3 d biological effect of printing is a better way, because "by adjusting the computer aided design and print materials formula, it can produce a controlled porosity and mechanical properties".

In preparation for the nerve scaffolds, the researchers in the past week platform developed on the basis of a 3 d printer based on stereo lithography.An important modification on the printer is added a 110 mu m optical fiber coupling, it USES a solid source of ultraviolet laser (355 nm).By using the custom 3 d printer, a "natural GelMA and synthetic PEDGA combination" be printed into the required shape.

Enhanced cell proliferation after low light stimulation

3 d printing nerve scaffolds were planted neural stem cells (NSCs), and every other day for 15 seconds of low illumination.Compared with those without LLLT in the control group, after light of cell proliferation rate was 44.4% higher.According to the research team, the success of the study "may be paved the way for the development of new generation nerve treatment".
The study has been published in the International Society for Biofabrication "magazine.