Sciatic Nerve Regeneration in Rat Model With PLGA-MWCNT Conduit Loaded by Fibrin Hydrogel Containing Nanolycopene and Schwann Cells

Abstract

This study developed a biodegradable neural guidance conduit using electrospun poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) to deliver allogeneic Schwann cells (SCs) for enhanced peripheral nerve regeneration. The conduit incorporated fibrin and lycopene-chitosan nanoparticles (Lyco-CNPs) optimized for enhanced stability and drug delivery (diameter: 163 ± 6 nm; zeta potential: −9.3 mV), addressing limitations of prior formulations. Key structural and mechanical properties included a fiber diameter of 251 ± 22 nm, tensile strength of 5.86 ± 0.98 MPa, Young's modulus of 1.68 ± 0.25 MPa, and pore diameter of 21.8 nm, ensuring robustness and nutrient diffusion. In vitro studies confirmed a dose-dependent increase in Schwann cell proliferation via MTT assay with the addition of lycopene nanoparticles (NL). In a 10-mm sciatic nerve defect model in rats, the PLGA-CNT-nanoLyco conduit seeded with SCs demonstrated superior regeneration, evidenced by 35.31% higher myelinated nerve density compared to controls. Histopathological (hematoxylin–eosin/Luxol fast blue) and walking-footprint analysis confirmed enhanced axonal alignment and remyelination. These results highlight the conduit's dual functionality as a structural scaffold and bioactive delivery system for nerve repair.