Simultaneous electrospin-electrosprayed biocomposite nanofibrous scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration

Currently, the application of nanotechnology in bone tissue regeneration is a challenge for the fabrication of novel bioartificial bone grafts. These nanostructures are capable of mimicking natural extracellular matrix with effective mineralization for successful regeneration of damaged tissues. The simultaneous electrospraying of nanohydroxyapatite (HA) on electrospun polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds might be more promising for bone tissue regeneration. In the current study, nanofibrous scaffolds of gelatin (Gel), Gel/HA (4:1 blend), Gel/HA (2:1 blend) and Gel/HA (electrospin-electrospray) were fabricated for this purpose. The morphology, chemical and mechanical stability of nanofibres were evaluated by means of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and with a universal tensile machine, respectively. The in vitro biocompatibility of different nanofibrous scaffolds was determined by culturing human foetal osteoblasts and investigating the proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization of cells. The results of cell proliferation, ALP activity and FESEM studies revealed that the combination of electrospinning of gelatin and electrospraying of HA yielded biocomposite nanofibrous scaffolds with enhanced performances in terms of better cell proliferation, increased ALP activity and enhanced mineralization, making them potential substrates for bone tissue regeneration.