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Improving PEEK bioactivity for craniofacial reconstruction using a 3D printed scaffold embedded with mesenchymal stem
Michael Roskies1, Jack O Jordan2, Dongdong Fang2
1Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Craniofacial Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, McGill University, Montreal, QC, CA.
Journal of Biomaterials Applications
|March 17, 2016
Summary
3D printed Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) scaffolds with a trabecular structure support mesenchymal stem cell viability. Adipose-derived stem cells showed enhanced osteodifferentiation on these novel PEEK scaffolds for craniofacial reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a bioinert thermoplastic with potential for craniofacial reconstruction.
- Clinical use is limited by poor bone integration.
- Surface modification and bioactive material impregnation are strategies to improve integration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To combine structural modification (trabecular network) and cell impregnation (mesenchymal stem cells) to enhance PEEK scaffolds.
- To compare the interaction of PEEK scaffolds with bone-derived stem cells (BMSC) and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC).
Main Methods:
- Customized PEEK scaffolds with trabecular microstructure were designed and fabricated using selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printing.
- Scaffold structure and morphology were evaluated using microCT and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Rat ADSCs and BMSCs were cultured on scaffolds, and cell proliferation and differentiation were assessed.
Main Results:
- SLS 3D printing produced PEEK scaffolds with 36.38% porosity and 1.309 g/cm² density.
- SEM confirmed viable cells attached to the scaffold surface and micropores.
- PEEK scaffolds maintained cell viability, with ADSCs showing significantly higher osteodifferentiation than BMSCs.
Conclusions:
- SLS 3D printing enables fabrication of porous PEEK scaffolds that support MSC viability.
- These scaffolds induce osteodifferentiation of ADSCs, offering potential for bone regeneration.
- Combining 3D printed PEEK scaffolds with MSCs may overcome limitations in craniofacial reconstruction.
