Reconstruction of peripheral nerves using biomaterials and mesenchymal stem cells: a scoping review

Peripheral nerve injuries lead to functional disability and significant socioeconomic costs. Although autografts are still the gold standard, their limitations have prompted the development of 3D bioprinted conduits as promising alternatives. This scoping review examines recent evidence on 3D-printed biomaterials, with or without mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) incorporation, for peripheral nerve reconstruction. To synthesize recent evidence on 3D-printed and bioprinted strategies for peripheral nerve repair based on biomaterial class, conduit design, manufacturing method, and biological enhancements like mesenchymal stem cells or other bioactive components, and to identify key evidence clusters, methodological trends, and translational gaps compared to graft-based repair. The review followed the PRISMA-ScR and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and BIREME-LILACS/SciELO (January 2019–October 2025). Clinical and preclinical studies and reviews evaluating the functional or structural outcomes of 3D conduits, with or without MSC-based augmentation, were included. Out of 1025 initial records, 24 studies were included. The most common biomaterials studied were PCL, PLGA, GelMA, and hybrid composites. Mainly in preclinical models, these constructs generally enhanced functional, electrophysiological, or histological outcomes compared to negative controls. In some cases, they even approached autograft benchmarks on certain measures. Conduits with MSCs or other bioactive factors more frequently showed higher myelinated fiber density, better tissue integration, or reduced inflammatory response, although comparisons with autografts were limited by varied outcome measures and mostly short-gap models. 3D-printed biomaterials, especially those functionalized with MSCs, represent a promising platform for peripheral nerve reconstruction. Controlled clinical trials, standardized protocols, and specific regulatory frameworks are necessary to validate their translational application. Protocol registered and available at OSF project 5pu7n. Peripheral Nerve Injuries/Three-Dimensional Printing/Mesenchymal Stem Cells/Biomaterials/Nerve Regeneration.