Novel Sulfated Alginate-Cerium Bioactive Glass Scaffolds: Promising Platform for Cardiac Tissue Regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases are a major global health burden.
• Cardiac tissue engineering (CTE) offers a promising regenerative approach.
• Biomaterials enhancing angiogenesis and antioxidant activity are crucial for CTE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a sulfated alginate (S-Alg)/cerium-doped 45S5 bioactive glass (Ce-BG) scaffold for cardiac patch applications.
• To assess the scaffold's physicochemical properties, cytocompatibility, angiogenic potential, and antioxidant activity.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of S-Alg/Ce-BG scaffolds using freeze-drying.
• Physicochemical characterization (SEM, mechanical testing, ion release).
• Cytocompatibility assays (MTT, cell morphology) with HUVECs.
• Assessment of angiogenic potential via VEGFR2 expression (qRT-PCR).
• Evaluation of antioxidant activity using DPPH assay.

Main Results:

• Scaffolds exhibited an interconnected porous structure (100-300 μm pores).
• Ce-BG incorporation reduced mechanical strength but ensured sustained ion release.
• Scaffolds were cytocompatible, supporting HUVEC adhesion and proliferation.
• Significant VEGFR2 upregulation and enhanced antioxidant activity were observed with Ce-containing scaffolds.

Conclusions:

• The S-Alg/Ce-BG composite scaffold possesses favorable properties for CTE.
• The scaffold demonstrates enhanced angiogenic and antioxidant potential.
• This scaffold is a promising candidate for advancing cardiac tissue regeneration.