A novel microfibrillar composite approach towards manufacturing nanoporous tissue scaffolds

Abstract

Nanofibrous interconnected networks have been fabricated from PLA and PET using two different techniques, namely, electrospinning and the concept of microfibrillar composite (MFC), to compare the morphology, production methods, costs, and, to an extent, their potential as scaffolds. Both methods of production create a three-dimensional network, with the electrospun scaffolds being comprised of a fibrillar, cross-plyed structure compared to the extruded scaffolds that consist of an interconnected porous network. The average diameter of the fibers ranged from 125-145 nm and 70-75 nm for the electrospun and extruded scaffolds, respectively. Mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells have been used to test the biocompatibility of the electrospun scaffolds. A live/dead stain indicated that cells could attach and grow on the PLA and PET scaffolds. A preliminary cost analysis demonstrates that electrospinning is substantially more time and cost effective for larger quantities produced; however, the MFC technique can potentially produce totally solvent-free scaffolds.