SEM of n-HA/CS/CMC composite scaffold harvested after implantation in muscle at (a) two weeks and (b) four weeks. Credit: Liuyun, Yubao and Chengdong
In a paper published in the free, online Journal of Biomedical Science, Chinese researchers Jiang Liuyun, Li Yubao and Xiong Chengdong report positive results from the use of a novel biodegradable composite tissue scaffold made of nano-hydroxyapatite and natural derived polymers of chitosan and carboxymethyl cellulose.
They say the scaffold is formed through the ionic crossing-linking of the two polyions between CS and CMC, and n-HA is incorporated into the polyelectrolyte matrix of CS-CMC without agglomeration. As a result, the scaffold benefits from a well-interconnected porous structure, high compressive strength and good structural stability and degradation. Further, when they seeded the scaffold with cells, the cells proliferated.
This should add one more promising material to the growing list being developed for bone and soft tissue engineering.