Influence of PLLA/PCL/HA Scaffold Fiber Orientation on Mechanical Properties and Osteoblast Behavior

Abstract

Scaffolds based on aligned and non-aligned poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA)/polycaprolactone (PCL) fibers obtained by electrospinning, associated to electrosprayed hydroxyapatite (HA) for tissue engineering applications were developed and their performance was compared in terms of their morphology and biological and mechanical behaviors. The morphological results assessed by scanning electron microscopy showed a mesh of PLLA/PCL fibers (random and perfectly aligned) associated with aggregates of nanophased HA. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry confirmed the homogeneity in the blends and the presence of nanoHA in the scaffold. As a result of fiber alignment a 15-fold increase in Young’s Modulus and an 8-fold increase in tensile strength were observed when compared to non-aligned fibers. In PLLA/PCL/HA scaffolds, the introduction of nanoHA caused a remarkable improvement of the mechanical strength of this material acting as a reinforcement, enhancing the response of these constructs to tensile stress. In vitro testing was evaluated using osteoblast (MC3T3-E1) cells. The results showed that both fibrous scaffolds were able to support osteoblast cell adhesion and proliferation and that fiber alignment induced increased cellular metabolic activity. In addition, the adhesion and proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus were evaluated and a lower number of colony forming units (CFUs) was obtained in the scaffolds with aligned fibers.

Octacalcium phosphate bone substitute materials: Comparison between properties of biomaterials and other calcium phosphate materials

“…For example, the increment in deformability during handling, the increase in osteoconductivity 23,24,34,36) , the cellular attachment capability even without a cell adhesive motif in the alginate 24) , and the possible augmentation of biodegradability in bone defects including orthopedic long bone defect models 21,22,36) . Natural polymers, such as collagen and gelatin, and synthetic biodegradable polymers, such as poly L-lactide 131,132) and poly caprolactone 133,134) , have also been utilized in combination with nano-HA crystals 135) and β-TCP particles 136) to improve the osteoconductive and mechanical properties of Ca-P materials. Some composite materials, such as HA/collagen, have widely been used for orthopedic bone defects, and have shown to possess efficacy beyond that of single-use Ca-P materials 137) .…”

Functionalization of Polycaprolactone Electrospun Osteoplastic Scaffolds with Fluorapatite and Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles: Biocompatibility Comparison of Human Versus Mouse Mesenchymal Stem Cells

“…PCL is also tissue compatible, bioresorbable and biodegradable biomaterial that produces promising results in clinical use [ 23 , 24 , 30 , 31 , 32 ]. However, its low bioactivity, hydrophobic behavior and long term degradation in vivo may limit applications for pure PCL [ 33 , 34 ]. At the same time, all the advantages of PLC matrix make it a highly promising therapeutic platform for multiple modifications.…”

A Comparative Review of Natural and Synthetic Biopolymer Composite Scaffolds

“…Tissue engineering [192] CS/PVA/ methylcellulose • The compatibility between CS and PVA has improved by adding MC. • Along with the high swelling rate, the mechanical characteristics of these scaffolds are greatly improved.…”