Optimization and evaluation of oxygen-plasma-modified, aligned, poly (Є-caprolactone) and silk fibroin nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration

The shortage of human donor corneas for transplantation necessitates the exploration of tissue engineering approaches to develop corneal substitutes. However, these substitutes must possess the necessary strength, transparency, and ability to regulate cell behaviour before they can be used in patients. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of an oxygen plasma surface-modified poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) combined with silk fibroin (SF) nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration. To fabricate the electrospun scaffolds, PCL and SF blends were used on a rotating mandrel. The optimization of the blend aimed to replicate the structural and functional properties of the human cornea, focusing on nanofibre alignment, mechanical characteristics, and in vitro cytocompatibility with human corneal stromal keratocytes. Surface modification of the scaffold resulted in improved transparency and enhanced cell interaction. Based on the evaluation, a composite nanofibrous scaffold with a 1:1 blend of PCL and SF was selected for a more comprehensive analysis. The biological response of keratocytes to the scaffold was assessed through cellular adhesion, proliferation, cytoskeletal organization, gene expression, and immunocytochemical staining. The scaffold facilitated the adhesion of corneal stromal cells, supporting cell proliferation, maintaining normal cytoskeletal organization, and promoting increased expression of genes associated with healthy corneal stromal keratocytes. These findings highlight the potential of a surface-modified PCL/SF blend (1:1) as a promising scaffolding material for corneal stromal regeneration. The developed scaffold not only demonstrated favourable biological interactions with corneal stromal cells but also exhibited characteristics aligned with the requirements for successful corneal tissue engineering. Further research and refinement of these constructs could lead to significant advancements in addressing the shortage of corneas for transplantation, ultimately improving the treatment outcomes for patients in need.