Lignocellulosic jute-based nanofiber composite as biomimetic tissue scaffold

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Science
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Developing sustainable biomimetic scaffolds is crucial for tissue engineering.
• Natural lignocellulose integration with biodegradable polymers offers a viable approach.
• Jute microfiber/polycaprolactone nanofiber (JMF/PCLNM) composites were explored for this purpose.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a JMF/PCLNM composite as a biomimetic scaffold.
• To evaluate its structural, mechanical, and biological properties for cellular functionality.
• To assess its potential for soft tissue engineering applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of JMF/PCLNM composite nanofibers.
• Morphological analysis using SEM.
• Chemical characterization using FTIR and XRD.
• Assessment of hydrophilicity, swelling, and in vitro biodegradation.
• In vitro cytotoxicity and cell proliferation assays using COS-7 fibroblast cells.

Main Results:

• Smooth, uniform nanofibers were achieved with up to 15 wt% JMF.
• FTIR confirmed polymer coexistence without cellulose disruption; XRD indicated cellulose recrystallization.
• Enhanced hydrophilicity and swelling capacity were observed with JMF addition.
• Proposed biodegradation mechanism involves hydrophilicity-driven diffusion and hydrolysis.
• Low cytotoxicity, intact cell membranes, and sustained proliferation were demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• The JMF/PCLNM composite exhibits favorable structural and biological properties.
• It effectively replicates the matrix environment for cellular functionality.
• This sustainable composite holds significant potential for soft tissue engineering applications.