Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA) - 45S5 Bioactive Glass (BG) Composites for Bone Tissue Engineering: 3D Extrusion...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• 3D extrusion printing is key for complex tissue regeneration scaffolds.
• Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) is a common biomaterial ink base, often modified for improved properties.
• Tailoring GelMA composites with fillers is crucial for balancing printability and biophysical performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of 45S5 bioactive glass (BG) and GelMA concentration on scaffold properties.
• To determine the optimal composition for 3D extrusion printing of GelMA-BG scaffolds.
• To evaluate the biomineralization potential and cytocompatibility of these composite scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• 3D extrusion printing of GelMA-BG composite scaffolds with varying compositions.
• Mechanical testing (compression stiffness).
• Degradation and swelling studies in simulated body fluid.
• Biomineralization assessment via calcium phosphate nucleation.
• In vitro cytocompatibility testing with human osteoblasts.

Main Results:

• 45S5 BG addition decreased compression stiffness but maintained structural integrity.
• Optimal printability and buildability achieved with 7.5 wt% GelMA and 2 wt% 45S5 BG.
• BG addition reduced degradation, increased swelling, and promoted calcium phosphate biomineralization.
• Scaffolds showed uncompromised human osteoblast proliferation and osteogenic marker expression.

Conclusions:

• GelMA/45S5 BG composites offer a promising platform for 3D printed bone tissue engineering scaffolds.
• Compositional tuning allows for control over printability, mechanical properties, and biological response.
• The developed scaffolds demonstrate potential for promoting bone regeneration through biomineralization and supporting osteoblast activity.