Structure and properties of PLLA/β-TCP nanocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

One of the key components of tissue engineering is a scaffold with suitable morphology, outstanding mechanical properties, and favorable biocompatibility. In this study, β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) nanoparticles were synthesized and incorporated with poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) to fabricate nanocomposite scaffolds by the thermally induced phase separation method. The PLLA/β-TCP nanocomposite scaffolds showed a continuous nanofibrous PLLA matrix with strut diameters of 100–750 nm, interconnected micropores with pore diameters in the range of 0.5–10 μm, and high porosity (>92 %). β-TCP nanoparticles were homogeneously dispersed in the PLLA matrix, which significantly improved the compressive modulus and protein adsorption capacity. The prepared nanocomposite scaffolds provided a suitable microenvironment for osteoblast attachment and proliferation, demonstrating the potential of the PLLA/β-TCP nanocomposite scaffolds in bone tissue engineering applications.