Janus 3D printed dynamic scaffolds for nanovibration-driven bone regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Cellular Mechanobiology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Physical stimuli can modulate cell functions like migration, differentiation, and survival.
• In vitro studies require non-invasive methods for external stimulus application to ensure in vivo relevance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and utilize dynamic, additive-manufactured Janus scaffolds activated by external ultrasound.
• To investigate the potential of ultrasound-induced nanovibrations for cellular modulation.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Janus scaffolds via phase-segregation of polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactide (PLA) blends.
• Utilizing scaffolds as ultrasound transducers (acoustic to mechanical energy conversion).
• Seeding human bone marrow derived stromal cells (hBMSCs) and stimulating them remotely via ultrasound.

Main Results:

• Janus scaffolds demonstrated spontaneous phase-segregation of PCL and PLA.
• Remote ultrasound stimulation induced mechanical nanovibration in the scaffolds.
• Stimulation led to enhanced hBMSC proliferation, matrix deposition, and osteogenic differentiation.
• Mechanism involved the formation and activation of voltage-gated calcium ion channels.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic Janus scaffolds offer a non-invasive method for external physical stimulation of cells.
• Ultrasound-activated scaffolds promote key cellular functions relevant to bone regeneration.
• This technology holds promise for in vitro and potentially in vivo applications in regenerative medicine.