Curcumin-loaded biodegradable polyurethane scaffolds modified with gelatin using 3D printing technology for cartilage tissue engineering

We described the curcumin-loaded biodegradable polyurethane (PU) scaffolds modified with gelatin based on three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for potential application of cartilage regeneration. The printing solution of poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) triol (polyol) and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI) in 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol was printed through a nozzle in dimethyl sulfoxide phase with or without gelatin. The weight ratio of HMDI against PCL triol was varied as 3, 5, and 7 in order to evaluate its effect on the mechanical properties and biodegradation rate. A higher ratio of HMDI resulted in higher mechanical properties and a lower biodegradation rate. The use of gelatin increased the mechanical properties, biodegradation rate, and curcumin release due to the surface cross-linking, nanoporous structure, and surface hydrophilicity of the scaffolds. In vitro study revealed that the released curcumin enhanced the proliferation and differentiation of chondrocyte. The 3D-printed biodegradable PU scaffold modified with gelatin should thus be considered as a potential candidate for cartilage regeneration.