Photothermal Sensitive 3D Printed Biodegradable Polyester Scaffolds with Polydopamine Coating for Bone Tissue Engineering

Abstract

Biodegradable scaffolds with photothermal effects and customizable pore structures are a hot topic of research in the field of bone repair. In this study, we prepared porous scaffolds using poly(lactic acid) (PLA) as the raw material and customized the pore structure with 3D printing technology. First, we investigated the effect of pore structure on the mechanical properties of this 3D PLA scaffold. Subsequently, the optimally designed PLA scaffolds were coated with PDA to enhance their hydrophilicity and bioactivity. XRD (X-ray diffraction), FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and EDS (Energy dispersive spectroscopy) results indicated that PDA was successfully coated on the surface of PLA scaffolds. SEM (Scanning electron microscopy) micrographs showed that the surface of the PDA/PLA scaffolds became rough. WCA (water contact angle) confirmed that the material has enhanced hydrophilic properties. PDA/PLA scaffolds exhibit a tunable photothermal effect under NIR (near infrared) irradiation. The 3D-printed PLA/PDA scaffolds have remarkable potential as an alternative material for repairing bone defects.

Recent Progress in Advanced Polyester Elastomers for Tissue Engineering and Bioelectronics

“…Another trend in recent bone regeneration research is introducing biofunctions, including electroactivity, conductivity [144], shape-memory property [145], and photothermal effects [146]. The real-time monitoring of regeneration states can be achieved by introducing a multi-convex triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG)-based sensor [139] (Figure 6E).…”

Enhancing Properties of 3D Printed Polymers: A Review of Recent PostProcessing Methods

“…Despite their ultrathin nature, nano-coatings offer superior performance, enabling lightweight yet highperforming applications. These coatings demonstrate promising potential in various industries, including healthcare, electronics, aerospace, and automotive due to their ability to impart exceptional properties at a reduced coating thickness [49][50][51][52].…”