Magnesium-containing silk fibroin/polycaprolactone electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds for accelerating bone regeneration

Abstract

Bone tissue engineering has become one of the most effective methods for treating bone defects. In this study, an electrospun tissue engineering membrane containing magnesium was successfully fabricated by incorporating magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles into silk fibroin and polycaprolactone (SF/PCL)-blend scaffolds. The release kinetics of Mg2+ and the effects of magnesium on scaffold morphology, and cellular behavior were investigated. The obtained Mg-functionalized nanofibrous scaffolds displayed controlled release of Mg2+, satisfactory biocompatibility and osteogenic capability. The in vivo implantation of magnesium-containing electrospun nanofibrous membrane in a rat calvarial defect resulted in the significant enhancement of bone regeneration twelve weeks post-surgery. This work represents a valuable strategy for fabricating functional magnesium-containing electrospun scaffolds that show potential in craniofacial and orthopedic applications.

Keywords

• Magnesium
• Silk fibroin
• Polycaprolactone
• Nanofibrous scaffolds
• Bone regeneration