A biomimetic in-situ mineralization ECM composite scaffold for bone regeneration

Abstract

Aim or Purpose: This study aimed to establish a homogeneous organic-inorganic composite scaffold (nHA@SIS) based on the ''polymer-induced liquid precursor'' (PILP) theory and explore its potential in bone tissue engineering. Materials and Methods: A fresh decellularized small intestine was subjected to a series of defatting and decellularization processes, followed by preparation of freeze-dried powder. The powder was then dissolved in acetic acid and pepsin, molded, and then subjected to a second round of freeze-drying to obtain the organic component (SIS) of the nHA@SIS scaffold. Physicochemical characterization and cell biology evaluation of the nHA@SIS composite scaffold were performed. Results: The results showed that nHA@SIS had good pore size, porosity, hydrophilic properties, appropriate degradation rate, and good protein adsorption ability. Successful deposition of calcium phosphate significantly improved the mechanical strength and thermodynamic resistance of the nHA@SIS composite scaffold. Compared with pure SIS scaffolds, nHA@SIS maintained excellent cell activity of the SIS and better guided the reorganization of the cell skeleton, achieving superior osteoconductivity and maintaining osteoinductivity at the protein and gene levels. Conclusions: In conclusion, nHA@SIS significantly improved bone regeneration in vitro, indicating the enormous potential of nHA@SIS in bone tissue engineering applications.