Application of polymeric nanofibers in medical designs, part II: Neural and cardiovascular tissues

ABSTRACT

Nanotechnology has wide applications in many fields, especially in the biological sciences and medicine. Nanomaterials are applied as potential materials for treatment and diagnosis. Nanofibers mimic the porous topography of natural extracellular matrix, are advantageous for tissue regeneration and also for sustained release of encapsulated drug or growth factor. The author summarizes the currently available applications of nanofibers in two soft tissues of nerve and cardiovascular tissues. Shown in the graphic are Schwann cells seeded on different nanofibers under scanning electron microscope.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Biomaterials
• cardiovascular tissues
• nerve regeneration
• polymeric nanofibers
• tissue engineering