Functionally graded beta-TCP/PCL nanocomposite scaffolds: in vitro evaluation with human fetal osteoblast cells for...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Materials Processing

Background:

• Biomimetic tissue engineering requires biodegradable scaffolds with tailored physical and chemical properties.
• Achieving functionally graded properties in scaffolds is crucial for mimicking native tissue complexity.
• Existing methods may lack the precision needed for complex scaffold architectures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel twin-screw-extrusion/spiral winding (TSESW) process for creating radially graded porous scaffolds.
• To investigate the fabrication of scaffolds with controlled porosity, pore size distribution, and material composition.
• To evaluate the potential of these scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.

Main Methods:

• A twin-screw-extrusion/spiral winding (TSESW) process was employed to fabricate scaffolds.
• Scaffolds were composed of polycaprolactone (PCL), beta-tricalciumphosphate (beta-TCP) nanoparticles, and salt porogens.
• Radial grading of porosity (discrete and continuous) and beta-TCP concentration was achieved.

Main Results:

• The TSESW process successfully produced scaffolds with interconnected porosity and radial gradients.
• Scaffolds exhibited controlled variations in porosity, pore size distribution, and beta-TCP nanoparticle concentration.
• Characterization revealed favorable compressive properties and supported in vitro osteoblast cell proliferation.

Conclusions:

• The developed TSESW process offers significant control for fabricating functionally graded biodegradable scaffolds.
• These PCL/beta-TCP scaffolds demonstrate potential for mimicking native tissue structures and functions.
• The TSESW process provides a versatile platform for advancing biomimetic tissue engineering.