What is the correlation of nanofibre porosity with cell viability
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Correlation of Nanofibre Porosity with Cell Viability
Introduction to Nanofibre Porosity and Cell Viability
Nanofibre scaffolds are increasingly used in tissue engineering due to their ability to mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). A critical factor in the success of these scaffolds is their porosity, which influences cell viability, proliferation, and migration. This article synthesizes research findings on how the porosity of nanofibre scaffolds correlates with cell viability.
Importance of Porosity in Nanofibre Scaffolds
Porosity is a key determinant in the performance of tissue-engineered scaffolds. High porosity and appropriate pore size are essential for providing space for cell spreading and migration, as well as for the exchange of nutrients and waste. Electrospun scaffolds, which are commonly used in tissue engineering, often face challenges with fiber accumulation, leading to poor porosity and small pore sizes.
Modulating Porosity for Enhanced Cell Viability
Fiber Diameter and Packing Density
Research indicates that the porosity and pore sizes in electrospun scaffolds are primarily dependent on the fiber diameter and their packing density. Scaffolds with larger fiber diameters and lower packing densities tend to have higher porosity, which improves cell viability, proliferation, and infiltration. Conversely, tightly packed scaffolds with smaller fiber diameters can reduce cell viability.
Structural Characteristics and Cell Viability
A comparative study on nanofibrous chitosan-polyethylene oxide (PEO) scaffolds revealed that larger fiber diameters and pore sizes enhance cell viability. However, increasing overall porosity and interconnectivity by reducing fiber diameter and pore size can negatively impact cell viability. This suggests that while high porosity is generally beneficial, the specific structural characteristics of the scaffold must be carefully balanced.
Mechanical Properties and Cell Viability
The mechanical properties of nanofibre substrates, such as stiffness and swelling behavior, also play a role in cell viability. For instance, cellulose nanofiber (CNF) substrates with varying porosity and stiffness showed significant differences in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) viability. Increased porosity generally improved cell adhesion and viability, highlighting the importance of mechanical properties in scaffold design.
Specific Case Studies
Graphene-Reinforced Nanofibers
Graphene-reinforced chitosan/gelatin nanofibers with high porosity demonstrated no cytotoxicity and enhanced cell migration compared to unreinforced nanofibers. This indicates that the addition of graphene can improve the structural and biological properties of nanofibrous scaffolds.
Polycaprolactone (PCL) Scaffolds
Electrospun PCL scaffolds with interconnected and hierarchically structured pores showed high porosity and promoted cell viability and differentiation. These scaffolds were particularly effective in bone tissue engineering applications, supporting both in vitro and in vivo cell functions.
Conclusion
The correlation between nanofibre porosity and cell viability is evident across various studies. High porosity generally enhances cell viability, proliferation, and migration. However, the specific structural characteristics, such as fiber diameter, packing density, and mechanical properties, must be carefully optimized to achieve the best outcomes. Future research should continue to explore the balance between these factors to develop more effective tissue-engineered scaffolds.
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