Dual-conductive polymeric deep eutectic solvent scaffolds containing carbon nanotubes for spinal cord reconnection

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to severe and irreversible loss of motor, sensory, and autonomic functions due to the formation of a hostile microenvironment that hinders neural regeneration. In this context, soft conductive scaffolds capable of restoring both electronic and ionic signaling are gaining attention. Here, we report the development of dual-conductive scaffolds based on polymerizable deep eutectic monomers (DEMs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), fabricated via photopolymerization. These supramolecular poly(DES) elastomers exhibit tunable mechanical properties, high ionic conductivity (10⁻²–10⁻³ S cm⁻¹), and porous architectures suitable for neuronal integration. Two optimized formulations were selected for in vitro evaluation using SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells under 2D and 3D conditions. Both scaffolds showed excellent biocompatibility, supporting cell viability, adhesion, and proliferation over 14 days. The most promising formulation presented a Young's modulus of 7 MPa, ionic conductivity of 2 × 10⁻² S cm⁻¹, and a high-density porous structure (∼50 μm pores), closely mimicking native spinal tissue properties. This multifunctional platform combines electronic and ionic conduction, structural mimicry, and biocompatibility, making it a promising candidate for spinal cord repair.