Laminin‐modified and aligned poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate)/polyethylene oxide nanofibrous nerve conduits promote peripheral nerve regeneration

Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) has received much attention for its biodegradability and biocompatibility, characteristics that are required in tissue engineering. In this study, polyethylene oxide (PEO)‐incorporated PHBV nanofibres with random or aligned orientation were obtained by electrospinning. For further use in vivo, the nanofibre films were made into nerve conduits after treatment with NH₃ plasma, which could improve the hydrophilicity of inner surfaces of nerve conduits and then facilitate laminin adsorption via electrostatic interaction for promoting cell adhesion and proliferation. Morphology of the surfaces of modified PHBV/PEO nanofibrous scaffolds were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Schwann cell viability assay was conducted and the results confirmed that the functionalized nanofibres were favourable for cell growth. Morphology of Schwann cells cultured on scaffolds showed that aligned nanofibrous scaffolds provided topographical guidance for cell orientation and elongation. Furthermore, three‐dimensional PHBV/PEO nerve conduits made from aligned and random‐oriented nanofibres were implanted into 12‐mm transected sciatic nerve rat model and subsequent analysis were conducted at 1 and 2 months postsurgery. The above functionalized PHBV/PEO scaffolds provide a novel and promising platform for peripheral nerve regeneration. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.