Fig. 5

In vivo vascularization after release of SDF-1. a Macroscopic side view of the CS-AuNRs before implantation. b CS-AuNRs scaffold after subcutaneous implantation. c Macroscopic side view of the CS-AuNRs scaffold 8 days after transplantation in rats. d Macroscopic examination of the CS-AuNRs scaffolds loaded with SDF-1 without electrical stimulation. e Macroscopic examination of the CS-AuNRs scaffolds loaded with SDF-1 after 2 min/day stimulation for 8 days. f–h Immunostaining of sections of the transplanted scaffolds for smooth muscle actin. f Control scaffold loaded with BSA and stimulation. g Scaffold loaded with SDF-1 without stimulation. h Scaffold loaded with SDF-1 and electrically stimulated. i, j Quantification of blood vessels. i Blood vessel density. j Blood vessel area