Polycaprolactone in Bone Tissue Engineering: A Comprehensive Review of Innovations in Scaffold Fabrication and Surface Modifications

Abstract

Bone tissue engineering has seen significant advancements with innovative scaffold fabrication techniques such as 3D printing. This review focuses on enhancing polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold properties through structural modifications, including surface treatments, pore architecture adjustments, and the incorporation of biomaterials like hydroxyapatite (HA). These modifications aim to improve scaffold conformation, cellular behavior, and mechanical performance, with particular emphasis on the role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in bone regeneration. The review also explores the potential of integrating nanomaterials and graphene oxide (GO) to further enhance the mechanical and biological properties of PCL scaffolds. Future directions involve optimizing scaffold structures and compositions for improved bone tissue regeneration outcomes.

Keywords

• bone tissue engineering
• polycaprolactone
• 3D printing
• scaffold modification
• surface coatings
• hydroxyapatite