Three-dimensional fibrous PLGA/HAp composite scaffold for BMP-2 delivery.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Three-dimensional scaffolds are crucial for protein delivery and bone tissue regeneration.
• Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is a key factor in osteogenesis.
• Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide)/hydroxylapatite (PLGA/HAp) composites offer potential for bone regeneration scaffolds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop rhBMP-2 loaded PLGA/HAp composite fibrous scaffolds using electrospinning.
• To investigate the in vitro release kinetics of rhBMP-2 from the scaffolds.
• To evaluate the attachment and viability of marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of PLGA/HAp composite fibrous scaffolds via electrospinning.
• Loading of rhBMP-2 into the scaffolds.
• In vitro release studies of rhBMP-2 over 2-8 weeks.
• Cell culture experiments using MSCs to assess attachment and viability.

Main Results:

• The PLGA/HAp scaffolds exhibited favorable morphology with homogeneous dispersion of HAp nanoparticles.
• Sustained release of rhBMP-2 (2-8 weeks) was achieved, with release rate increasing with HAp content.
• rhBMP-2 maintained its integrity and native conformation after electrospinning.
• HAp encapsulation enhanced MSC attachment and reduced scaffold cytotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• Electrospun PLGA/HAp composite scaffolds effectively deliver rhBMP-2 for bone tissue engineering.
• The scaffolds support cell attachment and viability, indicating potential for regenerative applications.
• Optimizing HAp content can modulate protein release and improve cell-material interactions.