Effects of PCL/PLA/HA nanocarrier on apoptosis, growth and functional metabolism of osteoblasts

Bone tissue engineering has emerged as a key approach to address orthopedic disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a composite nanofiber scaffold composed of polycaprolactone (PCL), polylactic acid (PLA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) on osteoblast viability, apoptosis and functional metabolism. Electrospun scaffolds of PCL/PLA, PCL/HA and PCL/PLA/HA were fabricated and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Cell proliferation was assessed via MTT assay, apoptosis through flow cytometry and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity via ATP assay. The PCL/PLA/HA scaffold exhibited smaller fiber diameters and promoted more prominent cell extensions compared to other groups. FTIR analysis confirmed component integration, with specific PCL peaks disappearing after composite formation. The PCL/PLA/HA scaffold significantly enhanced osteoblast proliferation and ALP expression (P<0.05) while reducing apoptosis rate. The PCL/PLA/HA composite nanoscaffold improves osteoblast function by promoting proliferation and metabolic activity while minimizing apoptosis. These findings support its potential application in bone tissue engineering.