A remarkable
challenge in myocardial tissue engineering is the
development of biomimetic constructs that can potentially improve
myocardial repair and regeneration. Polyurethane (PU) scaffolds are
extensively utilized in the cardiovascular system. We have synthesized
a new biodegradable poly(ester-ether urethane urea) (PEEUU) using
a new and simple method. To enhance mechanical and physicochemical
properties, the PEEUU was blended with polycaprolactone (PCL). We
then fabricated a series of new PU–PCL scaffolds. The scaffolds
were then characterized using SEM, porosity measurement, attenuated
total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR),
DSC, water contact angle measurement, swelling measurement, in vitro
degradation rate, and mechanical tests. Expression of the cardiac-specific
proteins on the scaffolds was investigated using immunofluorescence
staining and quantitative real-time PCR. The elasticity of blends
increased with an increase of PEEUU. In the blend scaffolds, the size
and interconnectivity of pores were in an appropriate range (142–170
μm) as reported in the literature. These blend scaffolds revealed
high cell metabolic activity for cardiomyoblasts and also enabled
cells to proliferate and express cardiac marker proteins at higher
rates. Histological examination of subcutaneously transplanted scaffolds
after two months revealed degradation in the blend scaffolds. It is
demonstrated that functionality of cells is sensitive to the composition
of biomaterials used, and the effective cell–biomaterial interactions
are critical in order to create a functional tissue engineered product
that allows seeded cells to develop their normal activity. The PEEUU–PCL
blends could potentially provide a versatile platform to fabricate
functional scaffolds with an effective cell–biomaterial interaction
for cardiac tissue regeneration.
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