Poly-dl-lactic acid coated Bioglass^® scaffolds: toughening effects and osteosarcoma cell proliferation

The fabrication and in vitro characterisation of 45S5 Bioglass^®-derived scaffolds coated with poly-dl-lactic acid (PDLLA) are presented. Two types of scaffolds with different porosities were studied. The scaffold microstructure was analysed by scanning electron microscopy before and after polymer coating. Compressive strength tests were performed in as-fabricated condition and after 28 days of immersion in simulated body fluid. It was found that PDLLA-coated samples have higher compression strength compared with the uncoated samples. Human osteosarcoma cell line (HOS-TE85) was used to determine the biocompatibility of the scaffolds. Cell proliferation and differentiated functions were investigated by AlamarBlue^™, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin assays. The scaffolds were maintained in cell culture for periods of up to 14 days. The combined effects of the scaffold microstructure (porosity, surface roughness and bioreactivity) and the polymeric coating induce favourable HOS cell behaviour. The results confirmed the biocompatibility of Bioglass^®/PDLLA composite scaffolds for HOS cell culture and contribute to the understanding of the characteristics of these scaffolds for potential applications in bone tissue engineering.