PGS/HAp Microporous Composite Scaffold Obtained in the TIPS-TCL-SL Method: An Innovation for Bone Tissue Engineering

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is a promising biodegradable elastomer for biomedical applications.
• Nano-hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a key component in bone tissue, known for its osteoconductive properties.
• Developing advanced composite scaffolds is crucial for effective bone regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel PGS-based composite incorporating nano-hydroxyapatite (HAp).
• To evaluate the structural, mechanical, and biological properties of the microporous PGS/HAp scaffolds.
• To assess the potential of these scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications.

Main Methods:

• Poly(glycerol sebacate) pre-polymer (pPGS) and nano-hydroxyapatite (HAp) were synthesized and characterized.
• Microporous PGS/HAp composites were fabricated using thermally induced phase separation (TIPS), thermal cross-linking (TCL), and salt leaching (SL).
• Scaffold characterization involved SEM, µCT, DSC, TGA, water contact angle, and in vitro cell studies with osteoblasts.

Main Results:

• The PGS/HAp composite scaffolds exhibited a well-defined microporous structure.
• In vitro studies confirmed excellent cytocompatibility, cell adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation of hFOB 1.19 cells on the scaffolds.
• PGS/HAp scaffolds significantly induced osteoclastogenic cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), promoting bone remodeling and reconstruction.

Conclusions:

• The developed PGS/HAp composite scaffolds are biocompatible and osteoconductive, showing great potential for bone regeneration.
• The HAp addition enhances the osteogenic properties of PGS scaffolds, facilitating bone tissue reconstruction.
• These findings support the use of PGS/HAp composites as advanced biomaterials for orthopedic applications.