Journal of Tissue Science and Engineering

Fabrication, Characterization and Optimization of Multiphasic Zein/Cartilage-derived Matrix/CP/Gelatin Composite Scaffolds for Potential Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Abstract

Azadeh Shahroodi, Sogol Hooshyar, Davood Yari, Jebraeil Movaffagh and Ali Moradi*

Introduction: Creating an ideal scaffold for bone tissue engineering requires specific characteristics. Composite materials, combining the advantages of polymers and ceramics, offer tailored properties and enhanced functionality. This study aimed to fabricate, characterize and optimize multi-phasic composite scaffolds with spiral backbones for potential bone tissue engineering applications.

Methods: Composite scaffolds were fabricated via electrospinning using 24.5% Zein and varying concentrations of Calcium Phosphate (CP) (15%, 20% and 25%). Ribbon-shaped electrospun Zein/CP composite mats were structured into spiral forms, placed in cylindrical Teflon molds, filled with a blended slurry (Zein/cartilage-derived matrix/CP/gelatin), snap-frozen and lyophilized to form multi-phasic composite scaffolds. Mechanical, FESEM and FTIR analyses assessed compressive strength, architectural properties (porosity, pore size and interconnectivity), thermogravimetric behaviour, chemical functional groups and biocompatibility.

Results and Discussion: The study evaluated composite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering, focusing on varying CP concentrations in Zein nanofibers. The scaffold with a 20% CP concentration exhibited Young’s modulus of approximately 3.26 MPa. FESEM analysis revealed highly interconnected pores for scaffolds with 15% CP, with a pore size of 50.12 ± 6.07 and a porosity of 69.72%. FTIR and DSC analyses confirmed scaffold robustness. Comparisons with bone tissue showed similarities in compressive strength but slight differences in porosity. Despite this, the scaffold demonstrated potential for further optimization. Overall, the scaffold with 20% CP exhibited superior mechanical strength, with larger pore sizes indicating better potential for cell growth and nutrition, high- lighting its promise for bone tissue engineering applications.