Fabrication and characterization of gelatin-based biocompatible porous composite scaffold for bone tissue engineering

In this study, composite scaffolds were prepared with polyethylene oxide (PEO)-linked gelatin and tricalcium phosphate (TCP). Chitosan, a positively charged polysaccharide, was introduced into the scaffolds to improve the properties of the artificial bone matrix. The chemical and thermal properties of composite scaffolds were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyzer, differential thermal analyzer. In vitro cytotoxicity of the composite scaffold was also evaluated and the sample showed no cytotoxic effect. The morphology was studied by SEM and light microscopy. It was observed that the prepared scaffold had an open interconnected porous structure with pore size of 230-354 μm, which is suitable for osteoblast cell proliferation. The mechanical properties were assessed and it was found that the composite had compressive modulus of 1200 MPa with a strength of 5.2 MPa and bending modulus of 250 MPa having strength of 12.3 MPa. The porosity and apparent density were calculated and it was found that the incorporation of TCP can reduce the porosity and water absorption. It was revealed from the study that the composite had a 3D porous microstructure and TCP particles were dispersed evenly among the crosslinked gelatin/chitosan scaffold.