Conductive scaffolds for guided neural network formation

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to the manufacture of conductive scaffolds of micro and/or nanofibers with the help of different printing techniques (e.g., near-field electrostatic printing, inkjet printing), such scaffolds enabling the formation of two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) neural networks to mimic the native counterparts. Applications of such patterned conductive scaffolds include, but are not limited to, an engineered conduit for guiding the differentiation and outgrowth of neural cells in peripheral nerve damage or in large-volume spinal cord injury under the electrical stimulation. Meanwhile, the scaffolds could also locally deliver various biomolecules in conjunction with electrical stimulation for facilitated nervous system regeneration.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.