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Preprints

Nano-Scaffold Containing a Functional Motif of Stromal Cell-Derived Factor 1 Enhances Neural Stem Cell Behavior and Promotes Synaptogenesis in a Traumatic Brain Injury Model

Tork MAB, Saberifar M, Yekta HJ, Hajinejad M, Ravandi HH, Gorji A, Negah SS.
Preprint from
Research Square
19 January 2024
PPR
PPR789988
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, presenting a significant challenge due to the lack of effective therapies. Neural stem cells (NSCs) have shown promising potential in preclinical studies as a therapy for TBI. However, their application is limited by challenges related to poor survival and integration within the injured brain. In this study, we investigated the effect of a novel nano-scaffold containing stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) on NSC behavior and synaptogenesis after TBI. Using an innovative design, we successfully fabricated a nano-scaffold with Young's modulus of approximately 3.21 kPa, which aligns closely with the mechanical properties exhibited by neural tissue. This achievement marks the first time such a scaffold has been created and has promising implications for its potential use in neural tissue engineering applications. Our findings demonstrate that the nano-scaffold enhances NSC proliferation, migration, and differentiation capacity in vitro . Moreover, when transplanted into the injured brain, the nano-scaffold promotes the survival and integration of NSCs, leading to increased synaptogenesis and functional recovery. These findings suggest that the use of the novel nano-scaffold containing SDF-1 could provide a promising approach to the treatment of TBI by improving NSC behavior and promoting synaptogenesis.