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* Hierarchically Structured Electrospun Scaffolds with Chemically Conjugated Growth Factor for Ligament Tissue
Hannah M Pauly1, Binulal N Sathy2, Dinorath Olvera2
11 School of Biomedical Engineering, Colorado State University , Fort Collins, Colorado.
Tissue Engineering. Part A
|March 29, 2017
Summary
This study developed a new tissue-engineered anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) using connective tissue growth factor (CTGF)-conjugated nanofiber scaffolds. The bioactive scaffolds promoted cell growth and ligament formation, offering a promising alternative for ACL reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Tissue Engineering
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are common, necessitating effective tissue-engineered replacements due to limitations of current treatments.
- Previous work established nanofiber bundles mimicking native ACL structure and supporting cell growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a hierarchical bioactive scaffold for ACL tissue engineering by conjugating connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) onto nanofiber bundles.
- To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo behavior of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on CTGF-conjugated scaffolds.
Main Methods:
- Electrospun polycaprolactone nanofiber bundles were conjugated with CTGF.
- Scaffolds were characterized for CTGF conjugation and release.
- MSCs were cultured on scaffolds in vitro and implanted in vivo to assess tissue formation.
Main Results:
- CTGF conjugation was successfully achieved and sustained.
- CTGF-conjugated scaffolds enhanced MSC proliferation and differentiation.
- In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated increased ligament-specific tissue formation on CTGF-conjugated scaffolds compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Hierarchical electrospun nanofiber bundles conjugated with CTGF represent a scalable and bioactive scaffold for ACL tissue engineering.
- This approach shows potential for developing improved ACL graft alternatives.
