In vitro preparation and characterization of dual biomimetic electrospun Wharton’s Jelly-derived extra cellular matrix/polycaprolactone sub-micron fibrous band-aid for superior Achilles tendon recovery

Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is a common sports injury, and complications usually occur. Promoting self-healing and suppressing the formation of scars and adhesions are priorities when treating ATR. The dual biomimetic electrospun Wharton’s Jelly (WJ)-derived extra cellular matrix (ECM)/polycaprolactone (PCL) sub-micron fibrous band-aid was developed for this purpose. Each electrospun band-aid was prepared into two layers: the outer layer was made of ordered PCL fibers and the inner layer was made of ordered PCL and 0%, 25%, 50% or 75% WJ-derived ECM mixed fibers. The ingredients, microstructure, hydrophilicity, and cell adherence and survival were tested. Histological and immunohistochemical staining showed that WJ-derived ECM comprised type I collagen, and the cell nucleus was removed by a special decellularizing process. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) verified the presence of protein in the electrospun band-aids. The electrospun PCL layer had high hydrophobicity and parallel, compact micron-size fibers that decreased viability of L929 cells and inhibited adherence. Electrospun PCL with different ratios of the WJ-derived ECM layer had good hydrophilicity and parallel, loose micron-size fibers. The ability to promote cell adherence and proliferation of the internal surface was 50% ECM > 0% ECM > 25% ECM > 75% ECM. Based on these results, the electrospun band-aid with 50% WJ-derived ECM might eliminate complications and result in superior recovery after ATR.