Roberto De Santis
IPCB-CNR, Italy
Title: Rapid prototyped nanocomposite magnetic scaffolds for tissue regeneration
Biography
Biography: Roberto De Santis
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Magnetic feature have been recently incorporated into polymer based multifunctional scaffolds for tissue engineering. The rationale relies on the possibility to deliver, on demand, bioaggregates such as drugs and growth factors, by switching on and off an external magnetic field. Moreover, cell seeding into these scaffold may be improved through external magnetic fields. Nanocomposite magnetic scaffolds consist of a thermoplastic polymeric matrix reinforced and functionalized with magnetic nanoparticles (MNP). These composites show a superparamagnetic behavior, as they magnetize in the presence of a magnetic field in a similar fashion of ferromagnetic materials, but removing the external magnetic field the residual magnetization is almost null.Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: Iron oxide and iron doped hydroxyapatite MNPs have been incorporated into aliphatic polyester matrix, and these nanocomposites were processed according to rapid prototyping techniques. A multiphysical approach based on magnetic measurements, simulations, mechanical testing and contact angle measurements has been carried out for characterizing these fully interconnected scaffolds. Cell-material interaction has been evaluated in vitro through cell assays, while preliminary in vivo behavior has been assessed through animal models.
Findings: Nanocomposite magnetic scaffolds have been successfully processed through rapid prototyping techniques. These scaffolds show a superparamagnetic behavior. MNPs allow to tailor mechanical properties and to improve wettability. Compared to neat aliphatic polyester based scaffolds, an enhancement of cell-material interaction and of tissue regeneration is observed. It seems that this approach is the only one possible to release, on demand, bioaggregates through an external physical signal.
Conclusion & Significance: Nanocomposite superparamagnetic scaffolds provide very unique features. Used in combination with magnetically labeled cells and/or magnetic functionalized bioaggregates, these scaffolds allow to trigger biological events by using static or dynamic magnetic fields. Custom made superparamagnetic nanocomposite scaffolds have the potential to guide the regeneration process of damaged biological tissues.