Fabrication of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds with 3D controllable geometric shapes

Electrospinning has become widely used in tissue engineering due to its ability to fabricate nanofibrous scaffolds that can simulate the extracellular matrix. However, it is a challenge to develop three-dimensional (3D) electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds with controllable geometric shapes. In this study, we present a novel method in which 3D printing is combined with electrospinning to fabricate 3D shaped scaffolds. Using gas foaming technology, two-dimensional electrospun scaffolds were treated with a NaBH4/methanol solution inside a 3D printed mold, which resulted in a 3D porous layered scaffold with the designed geometric shape. The in vitro biocompatibility analysis results indicate that the 3D scaffolds fabricated by the present method were favorable for cell attachment and growth. In addition, as proof of concept, cells were seeded on the 3D scaffolds using 3D bioprinting to obtain controlled deposition. The experimental results show that cells were initially encapsulated in the hydrogel and then migrated accurately back onto the scaffolds. These strategy will allow for novel design and mass production of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds, which could have potential applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.