Materials, 2017 · DOI: 10.3390/ma10121341 · Published: November 23, 2017
This study explores how two types of bioactive glass scaffolds change in structure when immersed in a cell culture medium. The scaffolds are made from 45S5 bioactive glass, a material known for its bone-bonding properties. The researchers used micro-computed tomography (µCT) to observe the scaffolds' structure over 56 days. They looked at how the scaffolds dissolved and how a bone-like layer called hydroxycarbonate apatite (HCA) formed on their surfaces. The findings suggest that both types of scaffolds undergo similar structural changes, with an initial dissolution phase followed by the formation of the HCA layer. These changes are important for the scaffold's ability to support bone growth.
The study suggests that scaffold architecture, especially pore structure and material composition, influences the rate of degradation and HCA formation, which are critical for bone regeneration.
Maritime sponge-derived scaffolds show promise due to their enhanced mechanical stability and optimal pore size distribution, making them a viable alternative to polyurethane foam-based scaffolds.
Further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to evaluate the osteogenic properties of cell-seeded BG-based scaffolds and their relationship to different pore structures, especially under dynamic culture conditions.