3D-Printed PLDLA-TMC/PEG 400 Vascular Scaffolds with a Poly(hexamethylene Biguanide) Antibacterial Coating

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Synthetic vascular scaffolds often have poor mechanical strength and low hydrophilicity.
• These limitations hinder vascular integration and increase infection risk.
• Developing advanced scaffolds is crucial for effective vascular repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer 3D-printed poly(L-co-D,L-lactide)-poly(trimethylene carbonate) scaffolds with enhanced mechanical and antibacterial properties.
• To incorporate polyethylene glycol (PEG) for improved hydrophilicity and mechanical modulation.
• To coat scaffolds with poly(hexamethylene biguanide) (PHMB) for sustained antimicrobial release and efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of 3D-printed PLDLA-TMC scaffolds with varying PEG 400 concentrations.
• Application of PHMB coatings at 3%, 6%, and 12% concentrations within HPMC.
• Characterization of structural, thermal, mechanical, and antimicrobial properties.
• Evaluation of drug release kinetics, cytotoxicity, and biocompatibility in co-cultures.

Main Results:

• 2% PEG incorporation significantly increased tensile strength to 0.79 MPa and improved elasticity.
• A 6% PHMB coating demonstrated sustained release over 7 days, maintained cell viability (72.95%), and achieved a 13.1 mm inhibition zone against S. aureus.
• 12% PHMB coating induced cytotoxicity, while 3% showed burst release.

Conclusions:

• Optimized 3D-printed PLDLA-TMC scaffolds with 2% PEG and 6% PHMB offer superior mechanical performance.
• These scaffolds exhibit sustained antimicrobial release and potent antibacterial activity.
• The developed scaffolds demonstrate promising biocompatibility for in vitro vascular applications.