Spiral-structured electrospun conductive conduits filled with aligned nanofibers for peripheral nerve regeneration

Peripheral nerve injury usually results in motor and sensory impairments, with nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) representing a promising strategy to facilitate nerve regeneration. The recovery of peripheral nerve injury is critically influenced by the topographic guidance cues and electrical properties of NGCs. In this study, the combination of hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) was used for the first time to enhance the conductivity of conduits. Through electrospinning, spiral-structured conductive PLCL/ HEC-PEDOT NGCs filled with aligned nanofibers (F-P/H-P) were fabricated. These electrospun F-P/H-P NGCs exhibited superior electrical conductivity, which significantly enhanced the adhesion and proliferation of SCs and PC12 cells and further promoted the expression of S100 and NF200 proteins in combination with electrical stimulation. In vivo experiments utilizing sciatic nerve defect models revealed that the conductive F-P/H-P conduit significantly accelerated peripheral nerve regeneration, neovascularization, and functional recovery. This study demonstrates the potential of electrospun conductive NGCs filled with aligned nanofiber membranes (F-P/H-P) to promote peripheral nerve regeneration and functional restoration.