Bio-Membrane-Based Nanofiber Scaffolds: Targeted and Controlled Carriers for Drug Delivery-An Experimental In Vivo...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Analyzing cell populations and vascularization in membrane scaffolds is vital for tissue engineering.
• Biomimetic nanostructured membranes offer potential for bone defect repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of SiO2-nanoparticle-loaded membranes doped with zinc or doxycycline in promoting bone regeneration.
• To assess cell population, vascularization, and inflammatory responses in a preclinical rabbit skull model.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of methyl methacrylate/hydroxyethyl methacrylate and methyl acrylate/hydroxyethyl acrylate copolymer membranes loaded with SiO2 nanoparticles.
• Doping membranes with zinc (Zn-M) or doxycycline (Dox-M).
• Implantation of scaffolds into critical bone defects in rabbit skulls and analysis of cellular and vascular components after six weeks.

Main Results:

• All membranes supported cell colonization and vascularization, predominantly under the scaffold.
• Zn-M increased osteoblast density by ~35% and Si-M by ~25% compared to Dox-M.
• Dox-M significantly inhibited osteoclast activity (~78% decrease) and promoted an anti-inflammatory profile.

Conclusions:

• Biomimetic electrospun membranes serve as effective templates for bone regeneration, fostering angiogenesis and cell colonization.
• Zn-M scaffolds are promising for osteogenic stimulation, while Dox-M scaffolds are beneficial for modulating inflammation and osteoclast activity in bone repair.