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Electrospun Nanofiber Scaffolds with Gradations in Fiber Organization
Published on: April 19, 2015
PLGA nanofiber-coated silk microfibrous scaffold for connective tissue engineering
Sambit Sahoo1, Siew Lok Toh, James Cho Hong Goh
1NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
Summary
This study presents a novel degumming method for silk scaffolds, creating robust hybrid nano-microscaffolds. These scaffolds support cell growth and tissue regeneration, offering a promising alternative for ligament and tendon repair.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Silk fibroin scaffolds are promising for tissue engineering but require efficient degumming to remove sericin.
- Existing methods may compromise the mechanical integrity of silk fibroin.
- Hybrid scaffolds combining silk and poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) have been explored for connective tissue repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a modified degumming technique for silk scaffolds that preserves native silk fibroin properties.
- To fabricate biocompatible and mechanically robust hybrid nano-microscaffolds using degummed silk and PLGA nanofibers.
- To evaluate the potential of these hybrid scaffolds for ligament and tendon tissue engineering.
Main Methods:
- A modified degumming process using sodium carbonate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, and ultrasonic agitation was applied to knitted silk scaffolds.
- Hybrid nano-microscaffolds were created by coating degummed silk scaffolds with silk solution and electrospun PLGA nanofibers.
- Cell proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition were assessed on the hybrid scaffolds, including rolled cylindrical constructs.
Main Results:
- The modified degumming technique efficiently removed sericin while preserving the mechanical and structural properties of silk fibroin.
- The fabricated hybrid scaffolds were biocompatible and mechanically robust.
- Seeding cells on both surfaces and culturing in a rolled configuration promoted cell proliferation, extracellular matrix deposition, and formation of ligament/tendon graft analogs.
- The slowly-degrading silk scaffold provided sustained mechanical support, overcoming the rapid biodegradation issue of PLGA.
Conclusions:
- The developed degumming technique and hybrid scaffold fabrication method are effective for creating advanced biomaterials for tissue engineering.
- The hybrid silk-PLGA scaffolds demonstrate significant potential for ligament and tendon tissue regeneration due to their mechanical properties and ability to support cell growth.
- The sustained mechanical integrity of the silk component is crucial for long-term support during tissue healing.
