Molecules (Feb 2019)

Graphene-Based Nanocomposites for Neural Tissue Engineering

  • Ho Pan Bei,
  • Yuhe Yang,
  • Qiang Zhang,
  • Yu Tian,
  • Xiaoming Luo,
  • Mo Yang,
  • Xin Zhao

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24040658
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 24, no. 4
p. 658

Abstract

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Graphene has made significant contributions to neural tissue engineering due to its electrical conductivity, biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and high surface area. However, it demonstrates a lack of biological and chemical cues. Also, it may cause potential damage to the host body, limiting its achievement of efficient construction of neural tissues. Recently, there has been an increasing number of studies showing that combining graphene with other materials to form nano-composites can provide exceptional platforms for both stimulating neural stem cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation and neural regeneration. This suggests that graphene nanocomposites are greatly beneficial in neural regenerative medicine. In this mini review, we will discuss the application of graphene nanocomposites in neural tissue engineering and their limitations, through their effect on neural stem cell differentiation and constructs for neural regeneration.

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