Three-dimensionally microporous and highly biocompatible bacterial cellulose–gelatin composite scaffolds for tissue engineering applications

Abstract

In the current study, highly porous and biocompatible regenerated bacterial cellulose–gelatin (rBC–G) composite scaffolds were fabricated for tissue engineering applications. The scaffolds were prepared from porogen added composite solution of BC–G using a casting and leaching approach. The structural characterization of the scaffolds was carried out through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). FE-SEM images showed the presence and interconnectivity of pores, while FT-IR and XPS spectra confirmed the composite chemistry of the scaffolds. The observed high porosity and rapid swelling of the scaffolds ensure their nutrient exchange ability during practical applications. In vitro biological tests showed that animal fibroblast cells (NIH 3T3) adhered to and proliferated well on the rBC–G composite scaffolds. Cell penetration assessed by Confocal microscopy indicated up to 200 μm infiltration after 7 days of incubation, suggesting the suitability of the scaffolds for three-dimensional cell culture. The enhanced expression of metalloproteases (MMPs) showed that prolonged cell incubation can lead to extracellular matrix (ECM) production inside the 3D rBC–G scaffolds. These results demonstrated that our 3D rBC–G composite scaffolds are candidates for future biomedical applications, including tissue regeneration.