Multilayer Electrospun Scaffolds of Opposite-Charged Chitosans

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Chitosan (CS) is a low-cost, abundant biopolymer with biomedical applications.
• Its properties, including functionalization ease and antibacterial effects, make it suitable for tissue regeneration.
• Chitosan's similarity to natural polysaccharides like hyaluronic acid (HA) is advantageous.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a modified chitosan (SCS) mimicking hyaluronic acid (HA) for enhanced bone tissue regeneration.
• To evaluate the osteogenic and antibacterial properties of SCS-based electrospun matrices.
• To compare different SCS matrix configurations (CS, SCS, LBL, HYB).

Main Methods:

• Chitosan was functionalized with succinic anhydride to create negatively charged SCS.
• Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy confirmed functionalization.
• Electrospun matrices (CS, SCS, LBL, HYB) were fabricated and characterized.
• In vitro studies assessed human osteoblast proliferation, mineralization, and gene expression.
• Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was evaluated.

Main Results:

• FT-IR and NMR confirmed the successful introduction of carboxylic groups in SCS.
• All matrices containing SCS promoted human osteoblast proliferation, mineralization, and gene expression compared to CS.
• The HYB matrix (CS and SCS blended) demonstrated the most significant improvements in osteogenic activity.
• SCS-containing matrices retained the inherent antibacterial properties of CS.
• The pure SCS matrix exhibited significant inhibition of both S. aureus and E. coli growth.

Conclusions:

• Succinic anhydride modification yields a chitosan derivative (SCS) that better mimics HA.
• SCS-based electrospun matrices enhance osteoblast function, indicating potential for bone regeneration.
• The HYB matrix configuration shows superior performance for bone tissue engineering applications.
• SCS materials maintain antibacterial efficacy, offering dual benefits for biomedical applications.