Preparation and characterization of chitosan/graphene oxide composite hydrogels for nerve tissue Engineering

Abstract Different hydrogel materials have been designed to improve nerve tissue regeneration. Biomaterials used for nerve tissue have certain restrictions such as lack of proper mechanical strength. Recently, graphene related hydrogels provide appropriate mechanical properties. However, the influence of these engineered constructs on nerve renewal is still unclear and needs to be investigated. In this study, nano graphene oxide/chitosan (NGO/CHT) hydrogels were synthesized via and its physical properties such as morphology, swelling and mechanical properties were separately characterized. The influence of NGO/CHT hydrogel on the adhesion and proliferation rate of nerve cells was assessed. The results indicated that the NGO addition changed the pore structure and improved mechanical strength of hydrogel. Moreover, the addition of NGO increased nerve cells growth up to 20%. The funding showed that an appropriate concentration of NGO could successfully stimulate cell growth. This study may provide a significant experimental basis to design and develop functional hydrogel for nerve regeneration.