Biodegradable polyphosphazene-nanohydroxyapatite composite nanofibers: scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Bone is a natural nanocomposite with hierarchical structure.
• Hydroxyapatite is a key mineral component of bone.
• Developing biomimetic materials is crucial for bone regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• Fabricate biodegradable poly[bis(ethyl alanato)phosphazene]-nanohydroxyapatite (PNEA-nHAp) composite nanofibers.
• Characterize the morphology, nanohydroxyapatite distribution, and content of the composite nanofibers.
• Evaluate the potential of these nanocomposites for bone tissue regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Electrospinning was used to fabricate PNEA-nHAp composite nanofibers.
• Binary solvent systems (THF/ethanol) were employed for optimal nanohydroxyapatite dispersibility.
• Spectroscopy (energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray mapping) and gravimetric analysis were used for characterization.

Main Results:

• Composite nanofibers with diameters of 100-310 nm were successfully fabricated, encapsulating 20-40 nm nanohydroxyapatite crystals.
• Optimal composite nanofiber yield was achieved at 50% (w/w) nanohydroxyapatite loading.
• Higher nanohydroxyapatite loadings (>60% w/w) led to phase separation and hindered electrospinning.
• Surface morphology analysis confirmed nanohydroxyapatite encapsulation within the nanofibers.

Conclusions:

• Biodegradable PNEA-nHAp composite nanofibers can be fabricated using electrospinning.
• These nanofibers possess structural characteristics that mimic natural bone, including hydroxyapatite incorporation.
• The developed PNEA-nHAp nanofibers show potential as a scaffold for enhancing bone tissue regeneration by providing a biomimetic environment.