Ginger extract release from 3D printed calcium phosphate scaffolds for bone regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Engineering

Background:

• Critical-sized bone defects require advanced treatments.
• Multifunctional bone scaffolds are crucial for promoting osteogenesis and angiogenesis.
• Ginger extract possesses anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate 3D-printed tricalcium phosphate (3DP TCP) scaffolds loaded with ginger extract for enhanced bone regeneration.
• To investigate the effects of ginger extract on osteoblast and osteoclast activity.
• To assess the angiogenic potential and in vivo efficacy of the composite scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• 3D printing of TCP scaffolds and loading with ginger extract.
• In vitro release studies, cell viability assays, gene expression analysis (BGLAP, RUNX2, ALPL, RANKL), TRAP assay, resorption pit analysis, and endothelial tube formation assays.
• In vivo implantation in rat distal femur defects followed by histological analysis (SRBS and Masson-Goldner staining).

Main Results:

• Sustained ginger extract release over 28 days, with accelerated release in acidic conditions.
• Enhanced osteoblast viability and osteogenic gene expression; suppressed osteoclast activity and osteoclastogenesis.
• Significant increase in endothelial tube formation and in vitro wound healing.
• In vivo studies showed increased new bone formation (38.1% bone area vs. 19.3% control) and mineralized bone area (43.3% vs. 25.9% control).

Conclusions:

• Ginger extract-loaded 3DP TCP scaffolds demonstrate significant osteoinductive, anti-resorptive, and angiogenic properties.
• These bioactive scaffolds show great potential as a platform for enhancing bone regeneration in critical-sized bone defects.
• The combination of a biomimetic scaffold with a natural bioactive agent offers a promising strategy for orthopedic applications.