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Updated: Sep 22, 2025
Fabrication of a Bioactive, PCL-based "Self-fitting" Shape Memory Polymer Scaffold
Published on: October 23, 2015
Poly(DL-lactic acid) scaffolds as a bone targeting platform for the co-delivery of antimicrobial agents against S.
M Zegre1, J Barros2, I A C Ribeiro3
1Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal; H&TRC - Centro de Investigação em Saúde e Tecnologia, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, IPL - Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Av. D. João II, Lote 4.69.01, 1990-096 Lisboa, Portugal.
Abstract:
New strategies for the treatment of polymicrobial bone infections are required. In this study, the co-delivery of two antimicrobials by poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PDLLA) scaffolds was investigated in a polymicrobial biofilm model. PDLLA scaffolds were prepared by solvent casting/particulate leaching methodology, incorporating minocycline and voriconazole as clinically relevant antimicrobial agents. The scaffolds presented a sponge-like appearance, suitable to support cell proliferation and drug release. Single- and dual-species biofilm models of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans were developed and characterized. S. aureus presented a higher ability to form single-species biofilms, compared to C. albicans. Minocycline and voriconazole-loaded PDLLA scaffolds showed activity against S. aureus and C. albicans single- and dual-biofilms. Ultimately, the cytocompatibility/functional activity of PDLLA scaffolds observed in human MG-63 osteosarcoma cells unveil their potential as a next-generation co-delivery system for antimicrobial therapy in bone infections.
