3D bioprinted cell-laden GrooveNeuroTube: a multifunctional platform for ex vivo neural cell migration and growth studies

Abstract Extensive peripheral nerve injuries often lead to the loss of neurological function due to slow regeneration and limited recovery over large gaps. Current clinical interventions, such as nerve guidance conduits (NGCs), face challenges in creating biomimetic microenvironments that effectively support nerve repair. The developed GrooveNeuroTube is composed of hyaluronic acid methacrylate and gelatin methacrylate hydrogel, incorporating active agents (growth factors and antibacterial agents) encapsulated within an NGC conduit made of 3D-printed PCL grid fibers. In vitro studies showed that GrooveNeuroTube significantly promoted migration of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neuronal cells, 3D bioprinted at the far ends of the conduit to imitate a proximal nerve injury as a novel ex vivo model. A long-term culture of up to 60 d was employed to better mimic in vivo conditions. This model tested the effects of pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation on neural tissue development. After 60 d, GrooveNeuroTube showed a 32% cell migration increase compared to the growth-factor-group and 105% compared to the no-growth-factor condition. These results confirm that the GrooveNeuroTube system can effectively support sustained neural cell migration and maturation over extended periods, proving a new technology for testing peripheral nerve injury ex vivo .