Nano-β-tricalcium phosphate/collagen materials with improved biostability for bone replacement applications

Three mixtures of collagen (COL) solution and nano-ß-tricalcium phosphate (n-ß-TCP) powder, with dry weight ratios of 1:1; 1:2.6 and 1:5, respectively were prepared. After freeze-drying, porous three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds were obtained. COL/ß-n-TCP scaffolds were chemically crosslinked by treatment with carbodiimide. The crosslinking degree, assessed by quantification of free amine groups, decreased with increasing n-ß-TCP quantities. In vitro degradation test showed a better biostability of the chemically cross-linked scaffolds over non-treated ones. All crosslinked scaffolds presented a good cytocompatibility and supported cell proliferation at 48 h and 72 h after cell seeding. These results indicated that EDC cross-linked COL/n-ß-TCP scaffolds are potential candidates for bone substitutes with enhanced biostability and good biocompatibility. © 2009 SPIE.

Duke Scholars

Author Oana Craciunescu Radiation Oncology