3D-bioprinted poly(lactic acid)/β-TCP/mesoporous silica scaffolds: An investigation on in-vitro bioactivity and osteogenesis characteristics

Abstract

The current work aims to formulate novel bioactive and biocompatible 3D printed poly (-lactic acid)/Beta tri calcium phosphate composite scaffolds reinforced with different types of mesoporous silica materials [PLA/-TCP/MSMs] for bone regeneration application, which is not envisaged earlier. The bioink encompassing 30 % organic content (PLA) and 70 % inorganic content (-TCP and MSMs) is formulated and their rheological characteristics are evaluated. Optimization of process conditions for 3D printed PLA composite scaffolds was done and pneumatic extrusion is performed. The physico-chemical properties as well as biological characteristics were assessed for 3D printed PLA/-TCP/MSMs based composite scaffolds. The existence of -TCP and MSMs incorporated into PLA matrix was observed to fasten the formation of hydroxyapatite, as evidenced by bioactivity assessment. The cytocompatibility analysis revealed that the 3D printed PLA/-TCP/MSMs composite scaffolds exhibit suitable biocompatible behaviour and osteogenic potential. The calcium mineralization and ALP expression were also noticed in higher levels for 3D printed PLA/-TCP/MSMs composite scaffolds. Gene expression analysis confirmed the expression of COL1, OCN, BMP-2 and RUNX2 on 3D printed PLA/-TCP/MSMs composite scaffolds. The results speculate that this novel formulation closely resembling the composition of natural bone might have promising applications in terms of bone tissue engineering.