Piezoelectric biomaterial could help treat CNS injuries

Made of cellulose and potassium sodium niobate (KNN) piezo-ceramic particles, the biomaterial is created using a process called directional freeze casting, where the structure is optimised to encourage the growth of cells in a specific direction. The composite is also porous, with space for new cells spaces to grow into, mimicking the three-dimensional network in the body. 

Ceramic microparticles have piezoelectric properties, meaning they create electrical charge when placed under stress or through body movement. This provides stem cells with the stimulation they need to grow, potentially creating new treatments for patients with brain or spinal cord injuries, as well as diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's. The research is published in Cell Reports Physical Science.  

“This is a ground breaking biomaterial, which has the potential to redefine the prospects of recovery from central nervous system injuries or neurodegenerative diseases,” said Dr Hamideh Khanbareh, senior lecturer at Bath’s Department of Mechanical Engineering and a member of the Centre for Integrated Materials, Processes & Structures (IMPS).

“It offers the hope of future treatments that could help patients regain crucial life-changing functions.

“It also offers clinicians the possibility to create therapeutic tools for treating conditions of this type and establishes a new class of versatile biomaterials that combine mechanical, electrical and biological cues.”

Caused by trauma to the brain or spinal cord, CNS injuries affect millions of people worldwide and are among the most challenging medical conditions to treat. According to Dr Vlad Jarkov, a PhD researcher in Bath’s Department of Chemistry who was the primary investigator of the research, the new material offers significant potential for future bespoke treatments. However, significant work will be required before the material can be trialled in clinical settings.

“As an advanced bespoke medical treatment, it requires further development to become a reality in our hospitals, but we are hopeful this is the start of finding a solution to helping the many people around the world who suffer life-altering brain and spinal cord injuries,” said Dr Jarkov.

“Focusing on finding a way to aid the growth neural stem cells is very challenging, as they are among the most complex cells in our bodies. We had to draw on a range of expertise – in mechanical engineering, chemistry, neuroscience and materials science, to reach this point.”