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Mineralised biopolymer scaffolds functionalised with Cissus quadrangularis extract for bone tissue engineering
Quang-Khanh Pham1, Cuong Hung Luu2, Anh Phuong Ngo1
1Group of Applied Research in Advanced Materials for Sustainable Development, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.
Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces
|August 1, 2026
Summary
This study developed a mineralized biopolymer scaffold using gellan gum, carboxymethyl chitosan, and bacterial cellulose for bone regeneration. The scaffold shows promise for enhancing bone repair with good biocompatibility and osteogenic properties.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Polymeric scaffolds are crucial for bone tissue engineering, providing a biomimetic environment for bone regeneration.
- Existing scaffolds often require chemical crosslinkers, which can raise biocompatibility concerns.
- Developing effective, biocompatible scaffolds is essential for advancing bone regeneration therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize a novel, chemical-crosslinker-free biopolymer scaffold for bone tissue engineering.
- To enhance the osteoconductivity and mechanical properties of the scaffold through mineralization and herbal extract incorporation.
- To evaluate the biocompatibility and osteogenic potential of the developed scaffold in vitro and in ovo models.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized a scaffold using gellan gum (GG), carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCs), and bacterial cellulose (BC).
- Mineralized the scaffold using accelerated soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF).
- Incorporated Cissus quadrangularis extract for osteogenic cues and evaluated its properties, including mechanical strength, haemocompatibility, and polyphenol release.
- Assessed biocompatibility and osteogenic differentiation using endothelial cells, preosteoblast cells, and the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay.
Main Results:
- The mineralized scaffold exhibited improved stiffness and load resistance compared to the unmineralized version.
- Scaffolds demonstrated high haemocompatibility, effective blood clotting, and controlled polyphenol release.
- In vitro and in ovo assays confirmed excellent biocompatibility, enhanced cell proliferation, and promoted osteogenic differentiation.
- The mineral phase acted as a reinforcing agent, enhancing mechanical properties.
Conclusions:
- The developed mineralized biopolymer scaffold is a promising material for bone regeneration applications.
- The scaffold's chemical-crosslinker-free nature, enhanced osteoconductivity, and biocompatibility make it suitable for further in vivo studies.
- This approach offers a robust foundation for advancing bone tissue engineering strategies.

