Preparation and characterization of thermosensitive nerve conduits with tissue-specific decellularized matrix hydrogel.

Abstract

Decellularized nerve matrix gel is promising for neural tissue engineering but limited by rapid degradation and poor mechanical stability. This study develops a thermosensitive nerve conduit incorporated with rat decellularized nerve matrix (rDNM) sol. The rDNM sol, with low cellular content and retained extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, forms a gel at physiological temperature and pH. By varying the rDNM proportion, conduits with excellent elasticity, tubular structure, and improved degradation resistance were fabricated. These conduits possess a micro-rough surface favorable for cell adhesion. In vitro assays confirmed excellent cytocompatibility and promotion of cell growth. Subcutaneous implantation in rats demonstrated favorable histocompatibility, mild inflammatory response, and a pro-angiogenic effect. Consequently, this thermosensitive rDNM-based conduit exhibits suitable physicochemical and biological characteristics, making it a promising candidate for further evaluation in peripheral nerve repair applications and potentially broadening the application of decellularized matrix hydrogels in tissue engineering.