Liposome combined porous beta-TCP scaffold: preparation, characterization, and anti-biofilm activity

The objective of this study was to design a novel artificial bone scaffold for therapy and prevention of refractory bacterial infection. Porous beta-tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP) scaffold was combined with liposomal gentamicin (GS) to form a novel complex drug carrier. The liposome combined beta-TCP scaffold (LCS) was characterized for its liposome binding rate, drug loading, and micromorphology. The anti-biofilm activity of LCS was evaluated by Staphylococcus aureus biofilm in vitro. The drug release from LCS was recognized as an initial high dose of liposomal GS released from the matrix and a further sustained release of free GS from the liposome, respectively, and it is an ideal release pattern for treatment and prevention of post-operative osteomyelitis. The release kinetics was influenced by variation of particle size of liposome. LCS displayed a potential anti-biofilm activity even in the lowest GS concentration (2.5 microg/mL), and the regrowth time was extended from 5.0 h to 9.5 h. At a higher dosage range, the highest anti-biofilm activity was achieved by LCS with liposomal particle size of 800 nm. In conclusion, the development of LCS showed a new pathway for controlled delivery of liposomal antibiotics for treatment of osteomyelitis caused by persistent bacterial infection.