In vitro cytotoxicity of single‐walled carbon nanotube/biodegradable polymer nanocomposites

Abstract

Injectable nanocomposites made of biodegradable poly(propylene fumarate) and the crosslinking agent propylene fumarate-diacrylate as well as each of three forms of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxicity. Unreacted components, crosslinked networks, and degradation products of the nanocomposites were investigated for their effects on cell viability using a fibroblast cell line in vitro. The results did not reveal any in vitro cytotoxicity for purified SWNTs, SWNTs functionalized with 4-tert-butylphenylene, and ultra-short SWNTs at 1- 100 microg/mL concentrations. Moreover, nearly 100% cell viability was observed on all crosslinked nanocomposites and cell attachment on their surfaces was comparable with that on tissue culture polystyrene. The degradation products of the nanocomposites displayed a dose-dependent adverse effect on cells, which was partially due to increased osmolarity by the conditions of accelerated degradation and could be overcome at diluted concentrations. These results demonstrate that all three tested nanocomposites have favorable cytocompatibility for potential use as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications.

Polymeric composites containing carbon nanotubes for bone tissue engineering

“…The combination of CNT, HA and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) has led to a new composite material, which has mechanical properties superior to those of conventional HA/PMMA for biomedical scaffold in tissue engineering [33]. Injectable nanocomposites made of biodegradable poly(propylene fumarate), the crosslinking agent propylene fumarate-diacrylate, and single-walled carbon nanotubes have favorable cytocompatibility for potential use as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications [34]. Nanosecond pulse laser-induced photoacoustic (PA) stimulated mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts efficiently in the presence of singlewalled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs).…”

Nanocomposite Scaffold for Chondrocyte Growth and Cartilage Tissue Engineering: Effects of Carbon Nanotube Surface Functionalization

“…Fiber-reinforced biomaterials, such as woven and electrospun scaffolds, have been developed and possess biomechanical properties more similar to those of native tissues. [13][14][15][16][17] Mechanical reinforcement of gels with nanotubes has also been examined in tissue engineering of bone, [18][19][20][21] although not in cartilage engineering applications. We hypothesized that SWNT nanocomposite scaffolds in cartilage tissue engineering can provide an improved molecular-sized substrate for stimulation of cellular growth, as well as structural reinforcement of the scaffold's mechanical properties.…”

Nanocomposite biomaterials based on poly(ether-ether-ketone) (PEEK) and WS2 inorganic nanotubes

“…apatite component, carbon nanostructures or metal nanoparticles). 55,56 In order to target clinical and medical applications, in vitro and in vivo studies are inevitable and the need for additional investigations in biomaterial system is imperative. In this direction, reports to follow will examine in detail the biocompatibility of this new family of nanocomposites.…”