3D Polymer Composite of Porous Silicon Particles for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration With a BDNF Model

Peripheral Nerve Injuries (PNIs), typically caused by trauma, are a major cause of lifelong disability. Due to limited success and risks associated with current treatment options, this research aims to improve peripheral nerve regeneration by developing a biomimetic 3D fibrous polymer scaffold nerve guidance channel loaded with porous silicon particles secreting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The polymer produced sufficient, localized release of the BDNF surrogate protein with high activity (> 95%) at a steady rate $\left(\mathrm{R}^{2}=0.96\right.$) over the regeneration period. This research presents a proof-of-concept for treatment of nerve damage and a generalizable drug delivery approach for other diseases.