Microbial Poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) Scaffold for Periodontal Tissue Engineering.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Developing biocompatible scaffolds is crucial for effective tissue regeneration.
• Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable polyesters with potential in biomedical applications.
• Poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (P(HB-50HV)) offers tunable properties for tissue engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and evaluate three-dimensional (3D) porous P(HB-50HV) scaffolds for dental tissue engineering.
• To assess the biocompatibility and cell proliferation of dental cells on P(HB-50HV) scaffolds.
• To compare P(HB-50HV) scaffolds with other biomaterials like PHB, P(HB-12HV), and PCL.

Main Methods:

• Biosynthesis of P(HB-50HV) using Cupriavidus necator H16.
• Fabrication of 3D porous scaffolds with high porosity (~90%).
• In vitro culture of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs).
• Evaluation of cell adhesion, proliferation, and morphology.
• Mechanical testing (compressive modulus) and water contact angle measurements.

Main Results:

• All fabricated scaffolds exhibited high porosity (90%) and a hydrophobic character.
• P(HB-50HV) scaffolds demonstrated the lowest compressive stiffness among tested materials.
• HGFs and PDLSCs showed excellent adhesion, proliferation, and healthy morphology on P(HB-50HV) scaffolds.
• P(HB-50HV) scaffolds exhibited superior cell compatibility compared to PHB, P(HB-12HV), and PCL.

Conclusions:

• P(HB-50HV) scaffolds possess favorable mechanical properties and excellent biocompatibility for dental cell growth.
• The P(HB-50HV) scaffold is a promising biomaterial for periodontal tissue engineering.
• These findings support the application of P(HB-50HV) in regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies.