Conductive Ionic Liquid/Chitosan Hydrogels for Neuronal Cell Differentiation

• The aim was to regulate cell behavior and promote nerve function recovery. • An artificial conductive pCM@IL hydrogel was employed to maintain cell viability and increase cell growth. • The pCM@IL conductive hydrogels enhanced neuronal cell proliferation and promote neuronal cells differentiation via upregulates synapse gene expression. • Results showed developed pCM@IL hydrogel is proper strategy for improving neuronal cell differentiation. To regulate cell behaviors and promote nerve function recovery, three-dimensional (3D) conductive hydrogel can transmit intercellular electrical signals, and effectively provide the cell survival environment. However, producing hydrogels with simultaneous high conductivity, favorable biocompatibility, and tissue-matching properties remains a challenge for spinal cord injury (SCI) treatment. Here, a conductive, multifunctional, and biocompatible VPImBF4 ionic liquid (IL) with photosensitive chitosan-based hydrogel (pCM@IL) is developed. The pCM@IL hydrogel exhibits a 3D microporous structure that could maintain cell viability and improve cell growth. Elastic modulus, conductivity, and biodegradability of the pCM@IL hydrogels are investigated with tissue-matching mechanical properties. The pCM@IL conductive hydrogels synergistically enhance neuronal cell proliferation and promote neuronal cells differentiation via upregulates synapse gene (Tubulin β3, GAP43, Synaptophysin) expression. Furthermore, in vivo studies of the pCM@IL conductive hydrogels as implants demonstrate low-inflammation and neovascularize promotion and appropriate biodegradable properties. The developed pCM@IL conductive hydrogel is a promising therapeutic scaffold biomaterial for SCI repair.