Methods: We fabricate a Collagen/poly(DL-lactide-co-caprolactone) biocomposite material with certain concentration of carbon nanotubes using electrospinning and obtain characterizations of this material, including surface morphology by SEM and mechanical properties by test of stress and strain . In vitro we get Schwann cells of high purity from rat sciatic nerves and evaluate biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of this novel material through MTT test and cell morphology observation by SEM.
Results: Electrospinning parameters are optimized to obtain bead-free and relatively uniform nanofibers of Collagen/poly (DL-lactide-co-caprolactone) with addition of functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes. Water contact angle test prove good hydrophilicity of this material. Due to carbon nanotubes, mechanical properties of this material get reinforced. The proliferation ability and morphology of Schwann cells are not much effected compared to the control group.
Conclusions: Electrospun Collagen/poly(DL-lactide-co-caprolactone) nanofibers with addition of functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes have good biocompatibility and mechanical properties, and may be a potential material as nerve conduits to promote axonal growth in peripheral nerve regeneration.
Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No.30772434) and Shanghai Leading Academic Discipline Project (Grant No.Y0203).