Fabrication of highly porous scaffolds for tissue engineering based on star-shaped functional poly(ε-caprolactone)

The potential of novel functional star-shaped poly(ε-caprolactone)s of controlled molecular weight and low molecular weight distribution bearing acrylate end groups as material for biomedical applications was demonstrated in this study. The polymers were functionalized via Michael-type addition of amino acid esters containing amino or thiol groups showing the potential for immobilization of biomolecules. Furthermore, scaffolds of different geometries were prepared by uniaxial freezing of polymer solutions followed by freeze drying. Different solvents and polymer concentrations were investigated, resulting in scaffolds with porosities between 76 and 96%. Mechanical properties of the scaffolds were investigated and the morphology was determined via scanning electron microscopy. Scaffolds with interconnected channels were prepared using benzene, 1,2-dichloroethane or dioxane as solvent. The tubular longitudinal pores in honeycomb arrangement extend throughout the full extent of the scaffolds (typical pore sizes: 20-100 µm).