Xiao Liu et al 2009 J. Neural Eng. 6 065002 doi:10.1088/1741-2560/6/6/065002
Xiao Liu, Kerry J Gilmore, Simon E Moulton and Gordon G Wallace1
Show affiliationsThe purpose of this work was to investigate for the first time the potential biomedical applications of novel polypyrrole (PPy) composites incorporating a large polyelectrolyte dopant, poly (2-methoxy-5 aniline sulfonic acid) (PMAS). The physical and electrochemical properties were characterized. The PPy/PMAS composites were found to be smooth and hydrophilic and have low electrical impedance. We demonstrate that PPy/PMAS supports nerve cell (PC12) differentiation, and that clinically relevant 250 Hz biphasic current pulses delivered via PPy/PMAS films significantly promote nerve cell differentiation in the presence of nerve growth factor (NGF). The capacity of PPy/PMAS composites to support and enhance nerve cell differentiation via electrical stimulation renders them valuable for medical implants for neurological applications.
87.19.R- Mechanical and electrical properties of tissues and organs
Issue 6 (December 2009)
Received 9 April 2009, accepted for publication 7 July 2009
Published 23 October 2009
Xiao Liu et al 2009 J. Neural Eng. 6 065002