A modular approach to 3D-printed bilayer composite scaffolds for osteochondral tissue engineering

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Osteochondral tissue damage can lead to osteoarthritis and reduced quality of life.
• Multiphasic scaffolds offer a promising treatment but face challenges in stable layer joining.
• Developing effective scaffolds is crucial for osteochondral defect repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and evaluate a novel bilayer scaffold for osteochondral tissue regeneration using 3D printing.
• To investigate the effect of varying fibrin concentrations on scaffold properties and biocompatibility.
• To assess the potential of the developed scaffold for cartilage and bone tissue repair.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a bilayer scaffold using 3D printing with PCL/hydroxyapatite (HA) and PCL/gelatin/fibrin composite layers.
• Characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and mechanical testing.
• Evaluation of hydrophilicity, degradation rate, cell attachment, and biocompatibility through MTT, DAPI, and Alizarin red assays.

Main Results:

• Porous scaffolds with pore sizes of 210-255 µm were successfully fabricated.
• Increased fibrin concentration enhanced scaffold ductility, hydrophilicity, and degradation rate.
• Scaffolds with 30% fibrin demonstrated superior cell attachment and biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• The 3D-printed bilayer scaffold shows significant potential for osteochondral tissue regeneration.
• Fibrin concentration is a critical factor in optimizing scaffold properties for cartilage repair.
• The combination of HA and fibrin enhances bioactivity and cell response, indicating a viable therapeutic approach.