Curcumin-Loaded HA-Based Nerve Guidance Conduit with PLA Microfibers-Filled Lumen Enhances Schwann Cell Proliferation and Alignment

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) represent a significant health challenge for society, as they can result in lifelong disabilities. Despite the rapid advancement of tissue engineering technology, the regeneration of peripheral nerves through nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) remains less favorable than the gold standard treatment, nerve autografts. Consequently, improving the effectiveness of NGCs is essential. The objective of this study was to develop a more effective nerve guidance conduit. To achieve this, hyaluronic acid tubular scaffolds were loaded with curcumin, which has been shown to promote peripheral nerve regeneration, and filled with polylactic acid microfibers to encourage directed growth. A physicochemical characterization of this novel NGC was performed to ensure a thorough understanding of its structural features and performance characteristics. The impact of curcumin and PLA microfibers on Schwann cells, a crucial player in nerve regeneration, was evaluated. The sustained release of curcumin from the hyaluronic hydrogel was observed to enhance the proliferation of Schwann cells, which aligned themselves in a parallel fashion with the PLA microfibers. The proliferation and alignment of these cells within the NGC provides an optimal environment for the regeneration of nerves.