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Updated: Jun 29, 2026
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Decellularized Apple-Derived Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: February 23, 2024
Design, fabrication, and characterization of a composite scaffold for bone tissue engineering
F Boschetti1, A A Tomei, S Turri
1LaBS, Department of Structural Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan and IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy. federica.boschetti@polimi.it
The International Journal of Artificial Organs
|October 1, 2008
Summary
This study optimized Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) scaffolds for bone tissue engineering by controlling microsphere fabrication and sintering. The resulting scaffolds exhibit mechanical properties and biocompatibility suitable for bone replacement applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) scaffolds are utilized in bone tissue engineering.
- Macroporosity is achieved through PLGA sphere packing or NaCl leaching.
- Hydroxyapatite (HA) enhances matrix reinforcement and osteoconduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- Optimize design parameters for bone tissue engineering scaffolds.
- Fabricate scaffolds using sintered PLGA microspheres, HA nanocrystals, and salt crystals.
- Control macroporosity and pore size for bone replacement applications.
Main Methods:
- Optimized microsphere fabrication via single-emulsion and solvent evaporation.
- Achieved PLGA microspheres with diameters between 80-300 micrometers.
- Evaluated sintering process and matrix composition effects on scaffold structure.
Main Results:
- Viscosity ratio and phase volume fraction critical for microsphere diameter control.
- Young's modulus (168-265 MPa) and ultimate strength (6-17 MPa) align with trabecular bone.
- Demonstrated fibroblast adhesion, proliferation, and spreading, indicating biocompatibility.
Conclusions:
- Established design criteria for PLGA/HA bone tissue engineering matrices.
- Optimized scaffolds possess suitable morphological, functional, and biological properties.
- Developed matrices meet requirements for bone replacement applications.
