In vitro and in vivo study of magnesium containing bioactive glass nanoparticles modified gelatin scaffolds for bone repair

Magnesium containing bioactive glass nanoparticles modified gelatin scaffolds (MBGNs/Gel scaffolds) have shown recently the potential for bone regeneration due to its good biocompatibility, bioresorbability and bioactivity. Nevertheless, its use is limited by its complicated manufacturing process and a relatively expensive price. In this study, MBGNs were prepared by sol–gel process. The MBGNs/Gel was synthesized by a simple immersion method. SEM, transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering analysis showed that the particles had spherical morphology with mean particle size of 100 nm. The MBGNs/Gel scaffolds were observed by SEM. The scaffolds showed connected pore structure with pore size ranging from 100 to 300 μm. SEM images with high magnification showed the existence of MBGNs on the surface of micro-pores. The ion release results revealed the release of Mg, Ca and Si elements from the MBGNs. MTT assay and cytotoxicity studies indicated that, the scaffolds provide a suitable ion related micro-environment for cell attachment and spreading. The Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results showed the scaffolds could promote the osteogenesis of MC3T3-E1. The in vivo study also showed higher amount of new bone and trabecular bone which indicated excellent bone induction and conduction property of modified scaffolds. So, the developed MBGNs/Gel scaffolds are a potential candidate for bone regeneration applications.