Synthesis and characterization of a novel open cellular Mg-based scaffold for tissue engineering application.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Tissue engineering aims to regenerate damaged tissues, often using porous scaffolds that mimic bone architecture.
• Magnesium (Mg)-based scaffolds are promising biomaterials for tissue engineering due to their biocompatibility.
• Fabricating porous Mg with desired properties is challenging due to its high reactivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate a novel Mg-based open-cell porous scaffold with interconnected pores and significant mechanical strength.
• To characterize the microstructural properties, mechanical performance, and degradation behavior of the fabricated scaffold.
• To evaluate the cytocompatibility of the scaffold for potential bone healing and repair applications.

Main Methods:

• Powder metallurgy approach utilizing Ti-woven wire mesh as a space-holding material.
• Microstructural analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and micro-computed tomography (µ-CT).
• Mechanical testing via quasi-static compression tests and preliminary degradation and cytocompatibility studies using L929 cells.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated Mg-based open-cell porous structures with tunable pore morphology and porosity (50-60%).
• Achieved ultimate compressive strength of 101 MPa and elastic modulus of 2 GPa.
• Demonstrated improved corrosion resistance and over 90% cell viability, indicating good biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• The developed powder metallurgy approach enables the fabrication of strong, porous Mg scaffolds with controlled architecture.
• The fabricated scaffolds exhibit promising mechanical properties, enhanced corrosion resistance, and excellent cytocompatibility.
• These Mg-based scaffolds represent a significant advancement for future bone scaffolding applications in regenerative medicine.