3D-Printed PLA/MgO/UCNPs composite scaffolds for immunomodulation and osteogenic bone repair

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Immunomodulation

Background:

• Persistent inflammation hinders bone defect repair by inhibiting osteogenesis and angiogenesis.
• Effective bone regeneration requires biomaterials with both immunomodulatory and osteoconductive properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and characterize composite scaffolds with anti-inflammatory and bone-repair-promoting capabilities.
• To evaluate the efficacy of these scaffolds in modulating the inflammatory microenvironment and enhancing bone regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of composite scaffolds via surface functionalization and 3D printing.
• Comprehensive characterization of physicochemical, degradation, and antioxidant properties.
• In vitro assessment of cytocompatibility, macrophage polarization, and osteogenic differentiation.
• In vivo evaluation of bone regeneration in a defect animal model using Micro-CT and histological analyses.

Main Results:

• The composite scaffolds successfully modulated the inflammatory microenvironment, promoting an anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotype.
• Enhanced cellular osteogenic activity, mineralization, and new bone formation were observed.
• Scaffolds demonstrated good cytocompatibility and facilitated tissue reconstruction in vivo.

Conclusions:

• The developed composite scaffolds offer a promising strategy for treating bone defects in inflammatory conditions.
• These biomaterials effectively combine immunomodulation with bone regenerative potential, providing a theoretical basis for future applications.