3D-Printed Polycaprolactone Scaffolds Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystals and Silver Nanoparticles for Bone Tissue...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) offer biocompatibility and reactivity for medical uses.
• Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a biodegradable polymer with potential in biomedical applications.
• Silver nanoparticles (AgNps) possess antimicrobial properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate 3D-printed bioactive composite scaffolds using PCL, CNC, and AgNps.
• To evaluate the physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties of the developed scaffolds for bone regeneration.
• To assess the osteoconductivity, biodegradability, and antibacterial efficacy of the PCL/CNC/AgNps composite.

Main Methods:

• Fused deposition modeling (FDM) for 3D scaffold fabrication.
• Incorporation of Ficus thonningii bark-derived CNC and synthesized AgNps into PCL.
• Characterization using Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Assessment of biodegradability, hydrophilicity, hydroxyapatite nucleation, mechanical strength, antibacterial activity, and cytocompatibility with Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).

Main Results:

• SEM confirmed a porous, interconnected scaffold structure.
• EDX verified the presence of AgNps.
• CNC and AgNps improved PCL's biodegradability, hydrophilicity, and hydroxyapatite nucleation.
• Scaffolds exhibited suitable mechanical properties for bone regeneration.
• Demonstrated effective antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli.
• Showed good cytocompatibility with MSCs.

Conclusions:

• The PCL/CNC/AgNps composite scaffolds are promising biomaterials for bone tissue engineering.
• These scaffolds offer enhanced resorbability, antibacterial protection, and structural adaptability.
• The study highlights the potential of these advanced materials for developing effective bone regeneration therapies.