Influence of RGD Peptide on Morphology and Biocompatibility of 3D Scaffolds Based on PLA/Hydroxyapatite

Abstract

The developments of three‐dimensional and bioactive supports are essential for bone tissue engineering. Therefore, this study reports the morphology and biological behavior of osteoblast cells grown on bioactive 3D scaffolds, obtained by electro‐spinning and based on poly(lactic acid), PLA, and Hydroxyapatite, HAp, composites (PLA/HAp), which were superficially treated with RGD. Likewise, the characterization of the obtained 3D scaffolds is presented and discussed. The results indicate that it is possible to obtain structures with porosities higher than 90% with interconnected channels, which favor cell adhesion and growth. Also, the biological performance evaluation of the scaffolds indicates that surface treatment with RGD was effective and has a synergistic effect along with HAp. The cell adhesion was also observed by SEM and the images show cells extended and adhered to the scaffold's fibers along with neighboring cells. Also, the HAp had an influence on cell proliferation, which showed the maximum values with 2.5 and 5.0% wt of HAp. Therefore, 3D PLA/HAp scaffolds, obtained by electrospinning, treated with RGD represent promising material for use in bone tissue engineering.