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Boron Nitride Based Nanobiocomposites: Design by 3D Printing for Bone Tissue Engineering
Habib Belaid1,2, Sakthivel Nagarajan1, Carole Barou1,2,3
1IEM, UMR 5635, Université Montpellier, 34095 Montpellier, France.
ACS Applied Bio Materials
|January 13, 2022
Summary
This study developed 3D printed polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds reinforced with exfoliated boron nitride (EBN) for bone tissue engineering. These biocompatible nanocomposite scaffolds show promise for promoting osteoblast cell growth and mineralization.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Developing effective scaffolds for bone regeneration is crucial for tissue engineering.
- Polylactic acid (PLA) is a promising biodegradable polymer, but its properties may need enhancement for specific applications.
- Incorporating nanoparticles can modify polymer characteristics for improved performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create and characterize 3D printed polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds enhanced with exfoliated boron nitride (EBN) for bone tissue engineering.
- To evaluate the physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties of these novel nanocomposite scaffolds.
Main Methods:
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing was used to fabricate PLA scaffolds.
- Exfoliated boron nitride (EBN) was incorporated as a filler to reinforce the scaffolds.
- Physicochemical analysis (Raman, XRD, DSC, TGA, SEM, contact angle) and in vitro cell studies (cytotoxicity, cell attachment, proliferation, mineralization) were performed.
Main Results:
- EBN presence was confirmed, and it reduced polymer crystallinity without altering transition temperature.
- Scaffolds exhibited a mean pore size of 500 μm, with EBN modifying surface roughness and hydrophilicity.
- PLA/EBN scaffolds were non-toxic, supported osteoblastic cell attachment and proliferation, and promoted mineralization.
Conclusions:
- 3D printed PLA/EBN nanocomposite scaffolds possess adequate biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties for bone tissue engineering.
- EBN incorporation enhances surface properties and promotes osteogenic activity, making these scaffolds suitable for regenerative medicine applications.
