Ca²⁺-supplying black phosphorus-based scaffolds fabricated with microfluidic technology for osteogenesis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Effective osteogenesis for bone defect treatment remains a significant clinical challenge.
• Artificial bone scaffolds offer a promising solution for enhancing bone regeneration.
• Sustained nutrient supply is crucial for successful osteogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel biomineralization strategy for bone defect treatment.
• To create three-dimensional nanocomposite fibrous scaffolds for sustained nutrient delivery.
• To investigate the osteogenic potential of black phosphorus-based scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of 3D poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibers incorporating black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets and hydroxyapatite (HA)-porous SiO2 nanoparticles using microfluidic technology.
• Characterization of the 3D BP@HA NFs for pore structure, nutrient release, and photothermal properties.
• In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the scaffolds' efficacy in promoting bone regeneration and osteogenic differentiation.

Main Results:

• The 3D BP@HA NFs exhibited interconnected pores facilitating cell infiltration and nutrient supply.
• Scaffolds demonstrated enhanced osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).
• Near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation enhanced element release and accelerated osteogenesis, confirmed by in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Microfluidic technology enabled cost-effective, high-throughput, mass production of the scaffolds.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D BP@HA NFs represent a novel bone scaffold platform for enhanced osteogenesis.
• The scaffolds provide sustained delivery of essential ions (P, Ca, Si) and leverage photothermal effects for accelerated bone regeneration.
• This technology offers a promising, scalable solution for treating bone defects, particularly beneficial for patients with calcium loss.