NSC-derived extracellular matrix-modified GelMA hydrogel fibrous scaffolds for spinal cord injury repair

Cell-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) has been applied in spinal cord injury (SCI) regeneration because of its various biological functions. However, insufficient mechanical properties limit its wide application. Herein, we developed GelMA/ECM hydrogel fibrous scaffolds (GelMA/ECM scaffolds) that can recruit and enhance the differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) by electrospinning and decellularization techniques. Moreover, the GelMA/ECM scaffolds had good mechanical properties and reinforced cell adhesion and proliferation. Compared to GelMA hydrogel fibrous scaffolds (GelMA scaffolds), GelMA/ECM scaffolds promoted more NSCs toward neurons by markedly enhancing the expression of MAP-2 and Tuj-1 and decreasing GFAP expression. In addition, the GelMA/ECM scaffolds significantly reduced the proportion of M1-phenotype macrophages, which is favorable for SCI repair. In vivo, the GelMA/ECM scaffolds recruited NSCs at the injured site, promoted neuron regeneration, and reduced the formation of glial scars and the inflammatory response, which further led to a significant improvement in the functional recovery of SCI. Therefore, this scaffold shows potential in regenerative medicine, mainly in SCI. A novel GelMA/ECM hydrogel fibrous scaffold was constructed via electrospinning and decellularization technique. The GelMA/ECM scaffold characterized by excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility, can accelerate SCI repair by recruiting and promoting the differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs), and reducing the proportion of M1-type macrophages. The study provides a promising system for SCI repair in clinical application.