Gelatin/PLGA Microspheres as a 3D Scaffold for Chondrocytes

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) degrades cartilage and bone. Osteochondral autograft, allograft, and total replacement knee surgery have limitations, such as prompt immune responses, lack of cartilage tissue obtainability, invasiveness, and a loosening implant that may require further correction. Tissue engineering, which involves injecting chondrocytes into 3D porous scaffold carriers in the joint, seems promising for tissue repair and growth. Objective: To develop gelatin/poly DL-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) microspheres as a porous scaffold for chondrocyte carriers. Methods: The double emulsion method is one of the most popular and best methods for forming microspheres. In summary, in the PLGA oil phase, we emulsified a gelatin solution representing the inner aqueous phase. Next, in an external aqueous phase of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), we emulsified the resultant first emulsion. The double emulsion was stirred to evaporate organic solvent and centrifuged to collect gelatin and PLGA microspheres. Results: The Mastersizer result showed polydispersed particles with 23.53% of the desirable cell injection size range between 1-300 µm. Scanning electronic microscope (SEM) images revealed spherical and porous microspheres with smooth surfaces. The average absolute zeta potential value was -30.7±4.895, indicating stable preparation. Conclusions: Gelatin and PLAGA polymers worked together to make 3D scaffold microspheres that were the right size, had the right number of holes, and were strong.