Ultrasound-Activated Piezoelectric Polyvinylidene Fluoride–Trifluoroethylene Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications.

This article focuses on the development and evaluation of a piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride–trifluoroethylene (PVDF-TrFE) scaffold activated by ultrasonic stimulation as a potential therapy for peripheral nervous system (PNS) regeneration. The study demonstrates that ultrasound-activated PVDF-TrFE scaffolds enhance metabolic activity and proliferation of NIH-3T3 fibroblasts compared to polystyrene controls, suggesting improved cellular responses relevant to nerve repair. By combining mechanical deformation from ultrasound with the scaffold's piezoelectric properties, this approach offers a noninvasive method to electrically stimulate cells, potentially overcoming limitations of current invasive electrical therapies. The findings support further development of PVDF-TrFE scaffolds for implantable nerve repair conduits, with additional in vivo studies needed to assess therapeutic efficacy and biocompatibility.