Automated production of nerve repair constructs containing endothelial cell tube-like structures

This study reports the automated, scalable manufacture of engineered neural tissue (EngNT) constructs containing aligned endothelial cells designed for peripheral nerve repair. A low-cost automated gel aspiration–ejection (LcAuto-GAE) system was developed by integrating a syringe pump with a robotic positioning platform, enabling reproducible formation of densified, anisotropic collagen constructs within minutes. Endothelial cell–laden EngNT constructs exhibited high viability, consistent cellular alignment, and the formation of lumen-containing tube-like endothelial networks that resemble early vascular structures observed during nerve regeneration. In vitro assays demonstrated that EngNT-HUVEC constructs supported aligned neurite outgrowth from rat dorsal root ganglion neurons, with increased neurite length and directional guidance compared to acellular controls. Mechanical testing confirmed that construct stiffness and strength were comparable to previously reported EngNT systems, validating the automated approach as suitable for scalable manufacture of nerve repair grafts with translational potential. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}