Patterned and Gradient Conductive Hydrogel for Regulating Nerve Cell Behavior

Creating multifunctional hydrogel scaffolds that combine gradient conductivity with patterned morphologies to mimic the extracellular matrix and modulate neuronal behavior remains challenging. This study developed a conductive, morphology-gradient hydrogel using an electrophoresis-based strategy. A thermosensitive polyisocyanopeptide (PIC) hydrogel served as the matrix, while graphene oxide nanosheets (GO) migrated under an electric field, forming a continuous gradient. This gradient enabled spatially varying conductivity, microstructure, and fiber alignment. Adjusting field strength and electrode configuration allowed precise control over GO distribution and patterned morphologies. SH-SY5Y cells aligned along the gradient, with higher GO regions promoting greater cell circularity and smaller cell areas than low-GO regions and controls. This work provides new insights into designing programmable multigradient conductive hydrogels, holding strong potential for advancing neural tissue engineering.