Advanced Biomaterials for Neural Regeneration and Axogenesis: From Cellular Support to Functional Recovery
A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Neurobiology".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2026 | Viewed by 57
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Recent progress in material science, nanotechnology, and regenerative neuroscience has fostered the creation of innovative biomaterials designed to support neuronal survival, differentiation, and functional integration. Hybrid systems, ranging from conductive polymers and bioactive hydrogels to carbon-based scaffolds such as graphene derivatives, are redefining how we approach neurorepair. These materials not only provide mechanical and biochemical support but also replicate key features of the extracellular matrix, promoting axogenesis, synaptogenesis, and the restoration of neuronal circuitry.
The development of multifunctional and smart biomaterials capable of interacting with neural tissue, releasing trophic factors, or transmitting bioelectrical cues has opened new avenues for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic injuries. Their ability to modulate cellular stress, enhance dopaminergic maturation, and protect neurons from degenerative processes represents a transformative step toward functional neural recovery.
However, important challenges remain. These include the optimization of biocompatibility and degradation kinetics, the precise control of bioelectric and biochemical signaling, and the translation of in vitro findings to in vivo and clinical applications. The combination of material engineering, advanced imaging, and molecular neuroscience offers a powerful framework to address these issues and push the frontiers of neural regeneration.
For this Special Issue, we invite researchers to submit original research articles, communications, or reviews covering recent advances in the following topics:
- Novel biomaterials and nanocomposites for neuroregeneration and axogenesis;
- Hybrid and conductive scaffolds (graphene, MXenes, nanotubes, hydrogels, etc.);
- Bioactive interfaces for neuronal differentiation and synaptic maturation;
- Molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurorepair promoted by biomaterials;
- Translational and in vivo studies for neural regeneration and neuroprotection.
Our goal is to provide an updated and multidisciplinary overview of emerging biocompatible materials for neural regeneration, integrating material chemistry, neurobiology, and biomedical engineering. This collection aims to serve as a reference for the scientific community exploring strategies to repair, replace, or enhance neural function through biomaterial innovation.
Dr. Noela Rodríguez-Losada
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- neural regeneration
- axogenesis
- neurorepair
- neuroprotection
- biocompatible materials
- extracellular matrix mimetics
- graphene-based scaffolds
- conductive polymers
- hybrid hydrogels
- carbon nanomaterials
- neuroengineering
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