Abstract:
Fine-tuning of the scaffolds structural features for bone tissue engineering can be an efficient approach to
regulate the specific response of the osteoblasts. Here, we loaded magnetic nanoparticles aka superparamagnetic
iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) into 3D composite scaffolds based on biological macromolecules (chitosan,
collagen, hyaluronic acid) and calcium phosphates for potential applications in bone regeneration, using a
biomimetic approach. We assessed the effects of organic (chitosan/collagen/hyaluronic acid) and inorganic
(calcium phosphates, SPIONs) phase over the final features of the magnetic scaffolds (MS). Mechanical properties,
magnetic susceptibility and biological fluids retention are strongly dependent on the final composition of
MS and within the recommended range for application in bone regeneration. The MS architecture/pore size can
be made bespoken through changes of the final organic/inorganic ratio. The scaffolds undertake mild degradation
as the presence of inorganic components hinders the enzyme catalytic activity. In vitro studies indicated
that osteoblasts (SaOS-2) on MS9 had similar cell behaviour activity in comparison with the TCP control. In vivo
data showed an evident development of integration and resorption of the MS composites with low inflammation
activity. Current findings suggest that the combination of SPIONs into 3D composite scaffolds can be a promising
toolkit for bone regeneration.
