CS/Gel/MWCNTs Conductive Scaffolds Assisted by Electrical Stimulus for Skin Tissue Engineering

Hydrogel scaffolds show high potential in tissue engineering due to excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. However, an inherent lack of conductivity limits its application in areas requiring electrical stimulation. To address this issue, chitosan (CS)/gelatin (Gel) scaffolds were prepared with various concentrations of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Results indicated that MWCNT incorporation significantly improved both the electrical conductivity and mechanical strength of the scaffolds, with the CS/Gel/0.3% MWCNTs scaffold demonstrating superior biocompatibility compared to other formulations. Additionally, fibroblasts seeded onto the scaffolds responded positively to electrical stimulation, showing increased proliferation and elevated expression of type I and type III collagen. These findings highlight the potential of CS/Gel/MWCNTs scaffolds to enhance wound healing in skin tissue engineering.