Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes and Chitosan Film Promote Nerve Regeneration by Releasing Nerve Growth Factor

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop kinds of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)-based materials, which could replace current autografts for neuron regeneration. The alternative MWCNT films was developed by encapsulated chitosan. To evaluate the characteristics of MWCNT films after modification, the measurements of electrical conductivity, contact angle and the degree of degradation were carried out. Two kinds of chitosan film preparation were designed, one was the dish film and the other was microscope slide film. The microscope slide film was exterior, however, the dish film was wrinkling. Comparing the thickness by micrometer caliper, the thickness of the dish film was 0.1950 to 0.0425 mm, and the microscope slide film was 0.0584 to 0.0109 mm. This result indicated the microscope slide film was more suitable for the following experiment because of less error value. The contact angle of the chitosan film was measured between 60~90 deg, it indicated the film was more hydrophobic. In order to achieve better biocompatibility, adding MWCNT significantly increased hydrophilicity of chitosan film.