Electrospun Nanofibers for Improved Angiogenesis: Promises for Tissue Engineering Applications
August 2020
in “
Nanomaterials
”
angiogenesis tissue engineering electrospun nanofibers ECM-mimicking structure bioactive components stem cells growth factors VEGF natural polymers synthetic polymers surface functionalization pro-angiogenic molecules inorganic elements bioceramics cytotoxicity bone regeneration skin regeneration neuroregeneration vascular endothelial growth factor extracellular matrix
TLDR Electrospun nanofibers show promise for enhancing blood vessel growth in tissue engineering but need further research to improve their effectiveness.
The document reviews the use of electrospun nanofibers in tissue engineering, emphasizing their potential to enhance angiogenesis, which is essential for tissue repair and regeneration. It details how the properties of nanofibers, such as their ECM-mimicking structure and high surface area, can be tailored to improve angiogenesis by incorporating bioactive components, stem cells, and growth factors like VEGF. The review discusses various strategies, including the use of natural and synthetic polymers, surface functionalization, and the controlled release of pro-angiogenic molecules to induce vessel formation. It also considers the role of inorganic elements and bioceramics in promoting angiogenesis while addressing cytotoxicity concerns. The document reports on studies that have shown the effectiveness of these scaffolds in bone and skin regeneration, as well as the potential for neuroregeneration. However, it concludes that more research is needed to overcome limitations such as limited cell infiltration and to optimize the scaffolds' physical and chemical properties for repairing highly vascularized tissues and organs.