Facile fabrication of Luffa cylindrica-assisted 3D hydroxyapatite scaffolds

Abstract

The incidence of bone-related disorders is abruptly increasing worldwide, and the current therapies available are not sufficient to fulfill the growing demands of patients. Porous three-dimensional (3D) structures cast in combination with ceramics and polymers, with an intention to mimic native bone tissues, are gaining importance because of their better physicochemical and biological activities. The purpose of this study is to prepare a porous scaffold using Luffa cylindrica (LC) as a template coated with hydroxyapatite and gelatin. Guar gum (GG) was used as a binder, and hydroxyapatite powder was added to slurry of 10% gelatin and 1% GG in which pieces of LC were dipped followed by sintering at 900°C. The fabricated scaffolds (LC-GG) were analyzed by using different characterization techniques along with evaluation of porosity and water retention ability. The results revealed that the as-formed scaffolds have 70% porosity with more than 90% water retention ability. The degree of spreading of lymphocytes over the scaffold surface was less in comparison with that of the control, which showed the immunocompatibility of the fabricated scaffold. Based on the aforementioned findings, it is assumed that the synthesized porous structures can suitably be used for biomedical applications.