Synthesis and biophysical characterization of porous bi-phase calcium phosphate/gelatin-PVA scaffold: Enhanced antibacterial, osteoconductivity and anticancer activity via silver nanoparticles and methotrexate incorporation

• Published in: Journal of molecular structure 2024-09, Vol.1311, p.138329, Article 138329
• Main Authors: Elgharbawy, Hani, Hassona, Aya, A․ Eid, Mohamad, Morsy, Reda
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antibacterial and anticancer activity; Biphasic calcium phosphates; Bone regeneration; Methotrexate; Porous scaffolds; Silver
• ISSN: 0022-2860; 1872-8014
• DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2024.138329

•Multifunctional Scaffolds: we designed freeze-dried scaffolds combining biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) and gelatin-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). These scaffolds hold immense potential for bone tissue regeneration.•Ag nano particles were incorporated for antibacterial and antimicrobial function. Methotrexate is incorporated for anticancer activity. Combination of them were integrated to provide multifunction scaffold.•Mechanical strength and Porosity: scaffold mechanical strength ranges from 28 to 173 kPa. High swelling rate. High porosity (up to 80 %) facilitates fluid absorption and wast removal in tissue engineering.•Cell viability and Toxicity: vero and MG-63 cells show no toxicity within 24 h. Higher Ag content (2.0 wt%) exhibits cytotoxicity.•Future Directions: investigate long-term effects and broader microbial contexts. Explore in vivo models for validation. In our relentless pursuit of advancing bone tissue regeneration, we have meticulously crafted multifunctional scaffolds that transcend traditional approaches. These freeze-dried scaffolds, composed of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) intricately woven into a gelatin-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix, harbor the potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine. The scaffolds are characterized with XRD, FTIR, SEM, 3D images of the SEM, mechanical properties, swelling and degradation tests, drug release, cell viability, antibacterial and anticancer tests. Our in-situ synthesis of BCP within the PVA framework yielded a biphasic structure comprising hydroxyapatite (HAp) and beta-tricalcium phosphate. These scaffolds exhibit good mechanical compressive strength (ranging from 28 to 173 kPa) and boast high porosity levels (approaching 80 %) enhance the processes of nutrition and waste removal. The incorporation of silver nanoparticles (Ag) introduces antimicrobial prowess, resulting in a complex scaffold texture characterized by well-defined pores and rugged walls. The interconnectivity within this fibrous network contributes to enhanced mechanical properties. Additionally, our scaffolds facilitate the sustained release of methotrexate (MTX), a potent anticancer agent. Within the first day, MTX is promptly delivered, potentially impacting cancer cells. These Ag-containing scaffolds effectively combat common pathogens, demonstrating significant antibacterial activity as an essential property for preventing infections at the implantation site. Notably, our scaffolds, whether infused with Ag or MTX (at a concen