Impact of Nanocellulose-Based Biocomposite Implantation on Rodent Behavior in the Elevated Plus Maze Test

Introduction: For application in regenerative medication, the biomaterial used in implants should have both structural and biological compatibility along with long-term safety with respect to the central nervous system. Nanocellulose (NC) is a promising biomaterial when it comes to biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and modifiability. However, there is a limited data on its long-term behavioural effects. Assessment of animal behaviour is an important aspect of preclinical safety evaluation. Methods: The six-month in vivo study was conducted using 20 male rats divided into an experimental group with intramedullary implantation of a nanocellulose-based biocomposite and a control group with an autologous blood clot. The elevated plus maze test was used to assess the behavioural activity, which includes anxiety-related behaviour, exploratory activity, emotional responses, and locomotor function. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed between the experimental and control groups for any of the analysed behavioural parameters. The animals exhibited comparable levels of anxiety, emotional state, and locomotor activity, with no signs of increased stress or neurotoxic effects. The findings show the implantation of the nanocellulose-based biocomposite does not cause adverse long-term behavioural effects in rats, supporting its biocompatibility and behavioural safety. Conclusion: These findings are consistent with current concepts of nanocellulose biocompatibility and support the potential for its further application in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.