[Experimental study on loading naringin composite scaffolds for repairing rabbit osteochondral defects]

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Osteochondral defects pose significant challenges in joint repair.
• Naringin, a natural flavonoid, exhibits potential therapeutic properties.
• Developing effective composite scaffolds is crucial for cartilage regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of naringin-loaded composite scaffolds for osteochondral defect repair.
• To assess the impact of naringin on cartilage regeneration and scaffold biocompatibility.
• To compare naringin-loaded scaffolds with unloaded and TGF-β1-loaded scaffolds in a rabbit model.

Main Methods:

• Naringin sustained-release microspheres were prepared using the W/O/W method.
• Osteochondral composite scaffolds were fabricated using attapulgite and collagen type I.
• The efficacy was assessed in a rabbit osteochondral defect model, with histological and biochemical analyses at 3 and 6 months.

Main Results:

• Naringin microspheres exhibited sustained-release properties, and scaffolds showed good porosity.
• Loading naringin significantly increased cell proliferation compared to unloaded scaffolds (P<0.05).
• Naringin scaffolds promoted significant defect repair, new cartilage formation, and collagen type II expression compared to controls (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Naringin-loaded composite scaffolds demonstrate excellent biocompatibility.
• These scaffolds are effective in repairing rabbit articular osteochondral defects.
• Naringin shows promise as a therapeutic agent for cartilage regeneration.