Nanocomposite Methacrylated Silk Fibroin-Based Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Bone defects present significant clinical challenges, driving the need for advanced bone tissue engineering solutions.
• 3D porous scaffolds are crucial for bone regeneration, providing temporary support and promoting healing.
• Silk fibroin, modified into methacrylated silk fibroin (SilMA), offers a promising base for scaffold development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate methacrylated silk fibroin (SilMA) sponges as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.
• To evaluate the impact of natural and synthetic hydroxyapatite nanoparticles on scaffold properties and bioactivity.
• To assess the combined effects of physical and chemical crosslinking on scaffold performance.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of SilMA sponges using particulate leaching and UV-crosslinking.
• Incorporation of mussel shell-derived (natural) and synthetic hydroxyapatite nanoparticles.
• Characterization of pore size, water absorption, and mechanical properties.
• In vitro bioactivity assessment using osteosarcoma cells (metabolism and morphology).

Main Results:

• Photocrosslinking improved scaffold regularity and stability in water.
• Naturally derived hydroxyapatite significantly enhanced osteosarcoma cell metabolism compared to synthetic hydroxyapatite.
• Scaffold properties were influenced by both nanoparticle type and photocrosslinking.

Conclusions:

• Methacrylated silk fibroin/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite sponges are promising for bone regeneration.
• The use of naturally derived hydroxyapatite offers a sustainable and effective approach.
• These scaffolds represent a novel tool for advancing bone tissue engineering strategies.