2007 December 10; 59(14): 1392–1412 | Dehai Liang, Benjamin S. Hsiao, and Benjamin Chu
The article reviews the use of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds in biomedical applications, focusing on materials, techniques, and post-treatment methods. Electrospinning is a versatile technique for producing non-woven fibrous structures with tunable properties, making them suitable for various biomedical uses such as tissue engineering, wound dressing, enzyme immobilization, and drug delivery. The properties of these scaffolds can be tailored by adjusting the chemical composition, physical properties, and fabrication techniques. The review highlights the importance of copolymerization and polymer blends in enhancing the functionality of electrospun scaffolds. Additionally, it discusses innovative electrospinning techniques, including two-phase electrospinning, core-shelled electrospinning, and blowing-assisted electrospinning, which allow for the incorporation of drugs, proteins, and other bioactive molecules. Post-treatment methods, such as grafting and crosslinking, are also explored to improve the anisotropy, porosity, and biocompatibility of the scaffolds. The article emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of developing functional nanofibrous scaffolds and their potential in advancing biomedical research and applications.The article reviews the use of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds in biomedical applications, focusing on materials, techniques, and post-treatment methods. Electrospinning is a versatile technique for producing non-woven fibrous structures with tunable properties, making them suitable for various biomedical uses such as tissue engineering, wound dressing, enzyme immobilization, and drug delivery. The properties of these scaffolds can be tailored by adjusting the chemical composition, physical properties, and fabrication techniques. The review highlights the importance of copolymerization and polymer blends in enhancing the functionality of electrospun scaffolds. Additionally, it discusses innovative electrospinning techniques, including two-phase electrospinning, core-shelled electrospinning, and blowing-assisted electrospinning, which allow for the incorporation of drugs, proteins, and other bioactive molecules. Post-treatment methods, such as grafting and crosslinking, are also explored to improve the anisotropy, porosity, and biocompatibility of the scaffolds. The article emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of developing functional nanofibrous scaffolds and their potential in advancing biomedical research and applications.