Plasma-Treated and Collagen-Coated PLLA Nanofiber Membrane for Cartilage Tissue Engineering

J.P. Chen, S.F. Lee and I.P. Chiang
Chang Gung University, TW

Keywords: nanofiber, plasma modification, collagen, chondrocyte

Abstract:
Biodegradable nanofiber membranes from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) were prepared by electrospinning to be used as a scaffold in cartilage tissue engineering. Parameters during the electrospinning process were studied in detail in terms of diameters of the nanofibers and pore sizes of the membranes. The nanofiber membranes were characterized by FESEM, BET, AFM, and mechanical testing. In order to improve cell attachment and growth, nanofibers were subjected to DC pulsed plasma treatment, acrylic acid grafting, and collagen coating by covalent binding to the carboxylic moieties of the polyacrylic acid. Basic fibroblast growth factor was also immobilized to the fiber with collagen to further enhance cell growth. The bioactive scaffolds were used successfully for culture of rabbit chondrocyte with improved cell viability, proliferation, and differentiation.

http://www.nsti.org/Nanotech2005/showabstract.html?absno=1172