Conjugated polymer-based composite scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine

Abstract

Conjugated polymers such as polypyrrole, polyaniline, and polythiophene have developed as capable candidates for scaffold fabrication due to their electrical conductivity, tunable surface properties, and ability to deliver bioactive molecules. When blended with other biomaterials and nanoparticles enables the formation of composites that leverage the advantages of both components. The main focus areas of the review include the use of conjugated polymer-based composites (CPCs) for tissue engineering e.g., neural, cardiac, bone, and skin. Within each section, specific examples are provided of conjugated polymer-biomolecule composite systems that have been explored along with a discussion of their composition, fabrication, and performance for supporting cell growth and tissue regeneration. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives are discussed in applying CPCs toward engineering clinically relevant tissues and organs. Overall, this comprehensive review covers fundamental design considerations in developing conjugated polymer composite scaffolds and their emerging applications in tissue engineering.

Keywords

• Conjugated polymer
• Composite
• Tissue engineering
• Regenerative medicine