Tailoring the Heterogeneous Structure of Macro-Fibers Assembled by Bacterial Cellulose Nanofibrils for Tissue Engineering Scaffolds

Bacterial cellulose/oxidized bacterial cellulose nanofibrils (BC/oxBCNFs) macro-fibers are developed as a novel scaffold for vascular tissue engineering. Utilizing a low-speed rotary coagulation spinning technique and precise solvent control, macro-fibers with a unique heterogeneous structure with dense surface and porous core are created. Enhanced by a polydopamine (PDA) coating, these macro-fibers offer robust mechanical integrity, high biocompatibility, and excellent cell adhesion. When cultured with endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (SMCs), the macro-fibers support healthy cell proliferation and exhibit a unique spiral SMC alignment, demonstrating their vascular suitability. This innovative strategy opens new avenues for advances in tissue engineering. Utilizing a new preparation strategy, the combined application of rotary coagulation bath, and controlled solvent evaporation, a novel BC-based macro-fiber with a heterogeneous and ECM-like structure is successfully developed. This novel PDA@(BC/oxBCNFs) macro-fibers and their prepared method offer new opportunities for the development of advanced biomaterials in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.image