Three-dimensional printed Zn2SiO4/sodium alginate composite scaffold with multiple biological functions for tendon-to-bone repair

Abstract

The intricate nature of the tendon–bone interface poses significant challenges for current surgical methods aimed at repairing tendon–bone interface injuries. Despite notable progress in surgical techniques, these methods continue to grapple with hurdles such as complications and suboptimal healing effects. In this study, we prepared a three‐dimensional‐printed composite scaffold by incorporating bioactive ceramic zinc silicate (Zn2SiO4) into sodium alginate (SA) hydrogel. The physicochemical properties and mechanical strength of the SA hydrogel scaffold composited with Zn2SiO4 (ZnSi/SA) were investigated in vitro. Impressively, the 0.5‐ZnSi/SA scaffold exhibited a sustained release of Zn and Si ions, while exhibiting mechanical properties compatible with tendon–bone interface repair. Moreover, cell viability, cell migration, and osteogenic differentiation assay results showed that 0.5‐ZnSi/SA scaffold facilitated the viability, mobility, and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells. In parallel, assessments of cell viability, cell migration, and tendon differentiation indicated that 0.5‐ZnSi/SA scaffold promoted the viability, migration, and tenogenic differentiation of tendon stem/progenitor cells. Moreover, cell viability, cell migration, and tube formation assay results demonstrated that 0.5‐ZnSi/SA scaffold enhanced the viability, migration rate, and angiogenic performance of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Collectively, our findings suggest a promising therapeutic avenue employing ZnSi/SA scaffold for tendon–bone interface healing.