Thermally drawn electrospun PCL conduit bundle constructs for advanced skeletal muscle regeneration

Abstract

Volumetric muscle loss, characterized by the partial damage and reduction of skeletal muscles resulting from trauma or surgery, poses a significant challenge to recovery as the self-regeneration capacity reaches its limits. One promising approach to address this challenge involves the transplantation of specifically designed scaffolds to facilitate the formation of new tissue. In this study, we developed an innovative manufacturing process that integrates electrospinning and an iterative thermal drawing process, successfully yielding a porous PCL conduit bundle construct tailored for skeletal muscle regeneration. The scaffold, created through electrospinning, features interconnected pores and fibrous structures with adjustable porosity. Furthermore, the iterative thermal drawing process resulted in a multi-fiber bundle structure that mimics muscle tissue and induces axial alignment. This research not only overcomes the limitations of 3D printing in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine but also contributes to the advancement of scaffold technology. The biomimetic bundle structures developed play a crucial role in achieving effective tissue regeneration.