Directed attachment of Schwann cells on protein micropatterned degradable polymeric substrates

After injury to the peripheral nervous system, axons from regenerating nerve cells must reach their innervation target to restore function. Polymeric substrates are currently being evaluated as nerve guides to enhance recovery after peripheral nerve injury. Degradable organic polymer substrates are highly suitable materials as matrices for tissue engineering because they can be specifically designed to serve as scaffolds then be absorbed by the body leaving only native tissue. Protein patterns on polymeric nerve guides may help maximize functional repair after injury because chemical cues can direct cellular components to their intended targets. Using microcontact printing techniques, protein stripes were patterned onto several different degradable polymeric substrates including poly(caprolactone), poly(caprolactam) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate). The fluorescently tagged protein micro-patterns were visualized by confocal scanning laser fluorescence microscopy. The micropatterned polymer substrates were evaluated for their ability to direct attachment and alignment of Schwann cells (a cellular component of the peripheral nervous system).