A novel conductive and micropatterned PEG-based hydrogel enabling the topographical and electrical stimulation of myoblasts

In this study, we designed a highly hydrated and cell-adhesive polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel that simultaneously provides topographical and electrical stimuli to C2C12 myoblasts. Specifically, PEG hydrogels with microgroove structures of 3 µm-ridges and 3 µm-grooves were prepared by micromolding; in-situ polymerization of poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) was then performed within the micropatterned PEG hydrogels to create a microgrooved PEG-based conductive hydrogel (CH/P). The CH/P had clear replica patterns of the silicone mold and a conductivity of 2×10-3 S/cm, with greater than 85% water content. In addition, the CH exhibited Young's moduli (45.84 ± 7.12 kPa) similar to that of a muscle tissue.The surface of the CH/P was further modified via covalent bonding with cell-adhesive peptides to facilitate cell adhesion without affecting conductivity. An in vitro cell assay revealed that the CH/P was cytocompatible and enhanced the cell alignment and elongation of C2C12 myoblasts. The mic...