In vitro evaluation of diopside/baghdadite bioceramic scaffolds modified by polycaprolactone fumarate polymer coating

Porous Si-based ceramic scaffolds are widely attracted in biomedical tissue engineering application. Despite the attractive properties of these materials, their weak mechanical properties and high degradability in vitro and in vivo environment can limit their application as biomedical devises. Applying a thin layer of polymer on the surface of porous scaffolds can improve the mechanical properties and control the degradation rate. In this study, we produced new modified scaffolds with polymers coating in order to improved mechanical and biological properties of Si-based ceramics scaffolds. The results showed that applying 6 wt% PCLF polymer on the surface of Bagh-15 wt%Dio scaffolds delayed apatite formation compared to unmodified scaffolds. On the other hand, in the modified scaffolds, apatite formation was observed. The degradation rate of unmodified scaffolds was decreased around 82% after 28 days soaking in PBS solution. Based on the MTT assay and SEM micrographs, the BMS cells were spread and attached well on the surface of the scaffolds, which indicated a good biocompatibility. The results showed that these scaffolds have the potential to be used as a temporary substrate for bone tissue engineering application.