A 6-month in vivo study of polymer/mesenchymal stem cell constructs for cranial defects

Abstract

Two biodegradable polymers, poly(L-lactide) and poly(ε-caprolactone) were blended (50/50) and used to produce polymeric scaffolds by the dual porogen approach using a salt leaching technique to create pores within the matrix, while supercritical-CO₂ treatment was used to enhance the interconnectivity and to remove impurities from synthesis steps. The scaffolds were highly porous (porosity >90%) with interconnected pore morphologies. These biodegradable scaffolds were evaluated in Sprague Dawley rats for osteoconductive properties over a 6-month period. Bone specimens were analyzed after 1, 3, and 6 months, for bone healing and tissue response. The cortical bone remodeling by controlled osteoblastic and osteoclastic activities as well as the bone marrow elements recovery were semi-quantitatively examined for each group. Excellent integration and biocompatibility behavior was observed in all groups. No adverse tissue responses were observed.

Keywords

biodegradable scaffolds bone marrow bone tissue engineering in vivo study osteoclastic activity polymeric blends salt leaching supercritical CO2

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