Our approach provides a clinically applicable treatment option for VML through accelerated innervation of biomanufactured muscle implants and subsequent improvements in functionality.

We previously developed a controlled-release neurotrophic factor delivery system using poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres encapsulating ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Here, we incorporate this neurotrophic factor delivery system into bioprinted muscle constructs to facilitate innervation in vivo.

Our results demonstrate that the neurotrophic factors released from the microspheres provide a chemical cue, significantly enhancing the neurite sprouting and functional innervation of the muscle cells in the biofabricated muscle construct within 12 weeks post-implantation.