Synthesis and characterization of growth factor free nanoengineered bioactive scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

Abstract

Abstract Background To address the obstacles that come with orthopedic surgery for biological graft tissues, including immune rejections, bacterial infections, and weak osseointegration, bioactive nanocomposites have been used as an alternative for bone grafting since they can mimic the biological and mechanical properties of the native bone. Among them, PCL-PEG-PCL (PCEC) copolymer has gained much attention for bone tissue engineering as a result of its biocompatibility and ability for osteogenesis. Methods Here, we designed a growth factor-free nanoengineered scaffold based on the incorporation of Fe3O4 and hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles into the PCL-PEG-PCL/Gelatin (PCEC/Gel) nanocomposite. We characterized different formulations of nanocomposite scaffolds in terms of physicochemical properties. Also, the mechanical property and specific surface area of the prepared scaffolds, as well as their feasibility for human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) adhesion were assessed. Results The results of in vitro cell culture study revealed that the PCEC/Gel Fe3O4&HA scaffold could promote osteogenesis in comparison with the bare scaffold, which confirmed the positive effect of the Fe3O4 and HA nanoparticles in the osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. Conclusion The incorporation of Fe3O4 and HA with PCEC/gelatin could enhance osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs for possible substitution of bone grafting tissue. Graphical Abstract