Physical characteristics and biocompatibility of the polycaprolactone-biphasic calcium phosphate scaffolds fabricated using the modified melt stretching and multilayer deposition

Abstract

Physical properties and biocompatibility of polycaprolactone (PCL)-biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffolds fabricated by the modified melt stretching and multilayer deposition (mMSMD) technique were evaluated in vitro. The PCL-BCP scaffold specimens included group A; PCL: BCP (wt%) = 80:20 and group B; 70:30. Mechanical properties of the scaffolds were assessed using a universal testing machine. Degradation behaviors of the scaffolds were assessed over 60 days. The amount of calcium and phosphate ions released from the scaffolds was detected over 30 days. Attachment and growth of osteoblasts on the scaffolds and indirect cytocompatibility to those cells were evaluated. The results showed that the scaffolds of both groups could withstand compressive forces on their superior aspect very well; however, their lateral aspect could only withstand light forces. Degradation of the scaffolds over 2 months was low (group A = 1.92 ± 0.47% and group B = 2.9 ± 1.3%,p > 0.05). The concentrations of calcium and phosphate ions released from the scaffolds of both groups significantly increased on day 7 (p < 0.05). Growth of the cells seemed to relate to accumulative increase in those ions. All results between the two ratios of the scaffolds were not statistically different.

Keywords: Scaffold; biphasic calcium phosphate; hydroxyapatite; polycarprolactone; tricalcium phosphate.