Muscle atrophy resulting from peripheral nerve injury
(PNI) poses
a threat to a patient’s mobility and sensitivity. However,
an effective method to inhibit muscle atrophy following PNI remains
elusive. Drawing inspiration from the sea cucumber, we have integrated
microneedles (MNs) and microchannel technology into nerve guidance
conduits (NGCs) to develop bionic microneedle NGCs (MNGCs) that emulate
the structure and piezoelectric function of sea cucumbers. Morphologically,
MNGCs feature an outer surface with outward-pointing needle tips capable
of applying electrical stimulation to denervated muscles. Simultaneously,
the interior contains microchannels designed to guide the migration
of Schwann cells (SCs). Physiologically, the incorporation of conductive
reduced graphene oxide and piezoelectric zinc oxide nanoparticles
into the polycaprolactone scaffold enhances conductivity and piezoelectric
properties, facilitating SCs’ migration, myelin regeneration,
axon growth, and the restoration of neuromuscular function. These
combined effects ultimately lead to the inhibition of muscle atrophy
and the restoration of nerve function. Consequently, the concept of
the synergistic effect of inhibiting muscle atrophy and promoting
nerve regeneration has the capacity to transform the traditional approach
to PNI repair and find broad applications in PNI repair.