Advanced bioelectronic scaffolds with electrostimulation for enhanced muscle regeneration

Tissue engineering scaffolds are essential for facilitating tissue regeneration, and electrical stimulation has emerged as a powerful complementary strategy to accelerate this process. However, the functionality and performance of current scaffold systems remain suboptimal, limiting their therapeutic potential. In this study, a novel graphene-boron nitride-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (GR-BN-PLGA) scaffold was fabricated using 3D printing technology for the repair of abdominal wall hernias in rats. The scaffold was constructed using two materials with distinct electrical properties, conductive GR-PLGA and insulating BN-PLGA, through a layered printing process. By integrating electrodes and microneedles, the scaffold was designed to establish a centrally directed electric field in the abdominal defect area, enabling effective electrical stimulation therapy. The results demonstrated that the combined application of the scaffold and electrical stimulation significantly upregulated the expression of α-smooth muscle actin, type I collagen, and Cell Proliferation Marker Protein Ki-67, thereby facilitating tissue remodeling. Meanwhile, the lower expression levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and connective tissue growth factor effectively suppressed excessive proliferation and fibrosis, aiding in the formation of stable and functional regenerated tissue. The synergistic application of conductive scaffolds and electrical stimulation provides a novel strategy for tissue repair and highlights its tremendous potential in accelerating tissue regeneration and promoting the formation of functional tissues. • The application of conductive scaffolds and electrical stimulation in tissue repair. • The scaffold, electrodes, and microneedles establish a radial electric field. • This treatment promotes the formation of functional tissue. • The treatment also prevents excessive proliferation and fibrosis.