Eletrofiação aplicada a cicatrização de feridas: revisão de literatura / Electrospinning applied to wound healing: literature review / Electroalambre aplicado a la cicatrización de heridas: revisión de la literatura

feridas correspondem a interrupção da continuidade da pele, com a perda de uma ou mais camadas do tecido cutâneo. Curativos tradicionalmente aplicados em feridas cutâneas buscam principalmente fornecer uma barreira de proteção e permitir o desenvolvimento dos eventos celulares e bioquímicos que compreendem a cicatrização. Objetivou-se com este estudo apresentar sob a forma de revisão de literatura narrativa os principais eventos relacionados ao processo de reparo tecidual da pele, bem como abordar a aplicabilidade da técnica de eletrofiação no desenvolvimento de curativos funcionais biocompatíveis. Foram selecionados artigos voltados à caracterização dos eventos chave ocorridos a nível tecidual durante a cicatrização e, na sequência, buscou-se artigos voltados à produção, caracterização e aplicação de filmes nanoeletrofiados com ênfase na utilização de biopolímeros e substâncias bioativas. Observou-se que a maioria dos trabalhos recentes, voltados a pesquisa de base, descrevem a resposta vascular como o principal evento do processo cicatricial, sendo responsável pelas etapas que se desenrolam a seguir, que compreendem as fases inflamatória, proliferativa e de remodelamento, classicamente já descritas. Os curativos funcionais baseados em polímeros eletrofiados apresentam resultados superiores quanto testados in vitro e in vivo. As características morfoestruturais mimetizam a matriz extracelular e podem atuar em tecidos alvo como dispositivos de entrega de substâncias. Conclui-se que a atualização e reorganização de conceitos relativos à cicatrização podem contribuir no desenvolvimento de inovações, como os curativos produzidos por eletrofiação. Embora promissora, as desvantagens da técnica encontram-se principalmente no processo de obtenção e disponibilidade, que limitam a aplicação clínica em escala comercial.

Wounds correspond to the interruption of skin continuity, with the loss of one or more layers of skin tissue. Dressings traditionally applied to cutaneous wounds mainly seek to provide a protective barrier and allow the development of cellular and biochemical events that comprise healing. The objective of this study was to present, in the form of a narrative literature review, the main events related to the skin tissue repair process, as well as to address the applicability of the electrospinning technique in the development of biocompatible functional dressings. Articles focused on the characterization of the key events that occurred at the tissue level during healing were selected and, subsequently, articles focused on the production, characterization and application of nanoelectrospun films with emphasis on the use of biopolymers and bioactive substances were sought. It was observed that most recent works, focused on basic research, describe the vascular response as the main event of the healing process, being responsible for the steps that follow, which include the inflammatory, proliferative and remodeling phases, classically already described. Functional dressings based on electrospun polymers show superior results when tested in vitro and in vivo. The morphostructural features mimic the extracellular matrix and can act in target tissues as substance delivery devices. It is concluded that the updating and reorganization of concepts related to healing can contribute to the development of innovations, such as dressings produced by electrospinning. Although promising, the technique's disadvantages lie mainly in the process of obtaining and availability, which limit clinical application on a commercial scale.

Las heridas corresponden a la interrupción de la continuidad de la piel, con la pérdida de una o más capas de tejido cutáneo. Los apósitos aplicados tradicionalmente a las heridas cutáneas buscan principalmente proporcionar una barrera protectora y permitir el desarrollo de los eventos celulares y bioquímicos que comprenden la curación. El objetivo de este estudio fue presentar en forma de revisión bibliográfica narrativa los principales acontecimientos relacionados con el proceso de reparación tisular de la piel, así como abordar la aplicabilidad de la técnica de electrodeposición en el desarrollo de apósitos funcionales biocompatibles. Se seleccionaron artículos dirigidos a la caracterización de los eventos chave ocurridos a nivel técnico durante la cicatrización y, a continuación, se buscaron artículos dirigidos a la producción, caracterización y aplicación de películas nanoelectrofíricas con énfasis en el uso de biopolímeros y sustancias bioativas. Se observa que la mayoría de los trabajos recientes, realizados en la investigación de base, describen la respuesta vascular como el principal evento del proceso cicatricial, siendo responsable de las etapas que se desarrollan a continuación, que comprenden las fases inflamatoria, proliferativa y de remodelación, clásicamente descritas. Los apósitos funcionales basados en polímeros electro-tejidos presentan resultados superiores cuando se prueban in vitro e in vivo. Las características morfoestruturales mimetizan la matriz extracelular y pueden actuar en tejidos alvos como dispositivos de entrega de sustancias. Se concluye que la actualización y la reorganización de los conceptos relativos a la cicatrización pueden contribuir al desarrollo de innovaciones, como las curativas producidas por la electrofagia. Aunque es prometedora, las desventajas de la técnica radican principalmente en el proceso de obtención y la disponibilidad, que limitan la aplicación clínica a escala comercial.

Biocompatibility evaluation of electrospun PLCL/fibrinogen nanofibers in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction / 生物医学工程学杂志

The study aimed to evaluate the safety and function of poly(lactic-acid-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL)/fibrinogen nanofibers (P/F-Ns), and provide theoretical basis for the clinical application. The surface morphology, mechanical properties, the hydrophilicity and the fibrinogen content of P/F-Ns were tested by scanning electron microscope, the material testing machine, the contact angle meter and the microplate reader, respectively. The cell adhesion, proliferation and ligament remodeling genes expression of Hig-82 cells on P/F-Ns were conducted through cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and real-time quantitative PCR analyses, respectively. The results showed that with the increase of the fibrinogen content, the pore sizes and hydrophilicity of three P/F-Ns increased, but the mechanical properties decreased. Cell adhesion and proliferation tests showed that P/F-N-2 held the best ability to promote cell adhesion and proliferation. The ligament remodeling genes expressions of Hig-82 cells on P/F-N-1, P/F-N-2 and P/F-N-3 were all up-regulated compared to P/F-N-0 on days 3 and 7. All the three P/F-Ns containing fibrinogen (P/F-N-1, P/F-N-2 and P/F-N-3) had better biocompatibility compared to P/F-N-0, and could be efficiently applied to the reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament.

Peptide-based bioactivated in vivo assembly nanomaterials and its biomedical applications: a review / 生物工程学报

Based on the self-assembly process occurring in the human body all the time, self-assembled nanomaterials were designed by the researchers. The self-assembled nanomaterials have controllability, biocompatibility and functional advantages in vivo. The self-assembled nanomaterials constructed in situ under a physiological environment display various biological characteristics which can be used for imaging, therapy, and broad clinical applications. In situ self-assembled nanomaterials can boost drug function, reduce toxic and side effects, prolong imaging time and enlarge signal-to-noise ratio. By using pathological conditions to trigger specific responses in vivo, well-ordered nanoaggregates can be spontaneously formed by multiple weak bonding interactions. The assembly shows higher accumulation and longer retention in situ. Endogenous triggers for in situ assembly, such as enzymes, pH, reactive oxygen species and ligand receptor interaction, can be used to transform the materials into a variety of controllable nanostructures including nanoparticles, nanofibers and gels through bioactivated in vivo assembly (BIVA) strategies. BIVA strategies can be applied for treatment, imaging or participate in the physiological activities of cells at the lesion site. This review summarized and prospected the design of self-assembled peptide materials based on BIVA technology and their biomedical applications. The nanostructures of the self-assembly enable some beneficial biological effects, such as assembly induced retention (AIR) effect, enhanced targeting effect, multivalent bond effect, and membrane disturbance. Thus, the BIVA nanotechnology is promising for efficient drug delivery, enhancement of targeting and treatment, as well as optimization of the biological distribution of drugs.

Vegetable cellulose nanofiber dressing aids in the healing process of third-degree burns? study on rats / Curativo de nanofibras de celulose vegetal auxilia na cicatrização de queimaduras de terceiro grau? estudo em ratos

ABSTRACT Background: The treatment of 3rd degree burns represents a major medical challenge. Pinus vegetable cellulose is a biomaterial with characteristic similar to bacterial cellulose. Aim: To evaluate the safety of cellulose membrane (Pinus sp) in the treatment of 3rd burns in rats and to compare its effectiveness with the bacterial membrane already on the market. Method: Thirty-three Wistar rats were beaten with a 3rd degree burn on back skin by applying water at 98º C for 30 s. Then, they were divided into three groups (n=11): group 1 - simple dressing with gauze; group 2 - dressing with bacterial cellulose membrane; and group 3 - dressing with vegetable cellulose membrane. The animals were maintained for 15 days to check the general clinical status, macroscopic aspect, contraction of the wounds and microscopic analysis for the degree of healing and collagenization. Results: They were clinically well during the experiment. During the removal of the dressing, there was bleeding in the wound of the control group, unlike the groups treated with cellulose membranes, which protected the bed from injury. The macroscopic evaluation showed a greater contraction of the wounds treated with the membranes in relation to the control. A microscopic analysis revealed that most of the wounds were in advanced healing degree with predominance of mature collagen in all groups. Conclusion: Pinus sp cellulose membrane showed efficacy similar to that of the bacterial membrane in the treatment of 3rd degree burns.

RESUMO Racional: O tratamento das queimaduras de 3˚ grau representa grande desafio na área médica. A celulose vegetal de pinus é biomaterial com características semelhantes às da celulose bacteriana. Objetivo: Avaliar a segurança da membrana de celulose vegetal (Pinus sp) no tratamento de queimaduras de terceiro grau em ratos e comparar sua eficácia com a da membrana bacteriana já comercializada. Método: Trinta e três ratos Wistar foram submetidos à queimadura de 3º grau na pele do dorso mediante aplicação de água a 98º C durante 30 s. Em seguida, foram distribuídos em três grupos (n=11): grupo 1 - curativo simples com gaze; grupo 2 - curativo com membrana de celulose bacteriana; e grupo 3 - curativo com membrana de celulose vegetal . Os animais foram avaliados durante 15 dias para verificar o estado clínico geral, aspecto macroscópico, contração das feridas e análise microscópica pelo grau de cicatrização e colagenizacao. Resultados: Permaneceram clinicamente bem durante o experimento. Durante a retirada do curativo houve sangramento na ferida do grupo controle, diferentemente dos grupos tratados com as membranas de celulose, que protegeram o leito da lesão. A análise microscópica mostrou que a maioria das feridas apresentava-se em grau avançado de cicatrização, com predomínio de colágeno maduro em todos os grupos. Houve maior contração das feridas tratadas com as membranas em relação ao grupo controle. Conclus ão: A membrana de celulose de Pinus sp apresentou eficácia semelhante à da membrana bacteriana no tratamento de queimaduras de 3˚ grau.

Hidrogel de quitosana com nanofibras de Policaprolactona (PCL) associado a extratos fitoterápicos no metabolismo celular e ação antimicrobiana: estudo in vitro / Evaluation of the chitosan hydrogel with PCL nanofibers associated with phytotherapeutic extracts in cellular and microbiological activity: in vitro study

O objetivo neste estudo foi produzir hidrogel de quitosana (CH) com PCL e fitoterápicos para uso preventivo de úlcera de pressão. Os hidrogéis de CH foram produzidos com glicerofosfato (GP) e com xantana (X), associados ao PCL e foram caracterizados por estereomicroscopio, intumescimento, molhabilidade e MEV. Posteriormente foram submetidos ao teste de viabilidade (MTT) com fibroblastos HFF-1 e queratinócitos HaCat. O hidrogel que apresentou melhor resultado foi escolhido para continuar na pesquisa. Posteriormente, extratos de Pfaffia panculata K, Juglans regia L, Rosmarinus officinalis L, Zingiber officinale, Própolis e Hamamelis foram colocados em contato com cepas de Staphylococcus aureus (S.a) (ATCC 6538), Streptococcus pyogenes (S.p) (ATCC 19615), Staphylococcus epidermidis (S.e) (ATCC 12228), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P.a) (ATCC 15442), Escherichia coli (E.c) (ATCC 25922) e Klebsiella Pneumoniae (K.p) (ATCC 4352) na forma planctônica nos testes de CIM e CMM. Os dois melhores extratos fitoterápicos foram avaliados quanto ao sinergismo no teste checkerboard e posteriormente associados ao hidrogel anteriormente eleito. A seguir, o comportamento da HaCat e HFF-1 com os hidrogéis foi analisado por MTT, proteína total, ELISA, genotoxicidade e formação de biofilme monotípico com suspensões padronizadas (107 cel/mL) de S.a, S.e, S.p, P.a, E.c e K.p. Na caracterização e viabilidade o hidrogel CHX PCL apresentou os melhores resultados. Os extratos selecionados após CIM, CMM e checkerboard foram gengibre (G) e própolis (P). O extrato G se destacou na CIM com inibição de K. p e P. a. Os extratos de G e P demonstraram ação microbicida para K. p e P. a e somente o extrato P obteve ação microbicida para S. a na CMM. Houve ação aditiva dos extratos associados no checkerboard para S.p e ação aditiva e sinérgica para S. e. Os grupos de hidrogéis foram compostos por: quitosana xantana (CHX), CHX própolis (CHXP), CHX gengibre (CHXG) e CHX própolis e gengibre associados (CHXPG), todos associados ao PCL. Todos os hidrogéis demonstraram viabilidade celular acima de 70% do grupo controle, permitindo metabolismo celular observado na proteína total. Houve quantificação de IL-6 maior no grupo CHX nas duas linhagens de células enquanto a quantificação de IL-10 não exibiu diferença estatística entre os grupos. Todos os hidrogéis promoveram redução acentuada de biofilme de K.p e E.c. Os grupos CHX, CHXP e CHXG reduziram biofilme de S.e. O grupo CHXG reduziu biofilme de S.p. Para S.a e P.a o grupo CHXPG foi mais eficaz reduzindo biofilme. Concluímos que os hidrogéis apresentaram resultados satisfatórios e promissores, trazendo inovação por associação de biopolímeros e associação de extratos fitoterápicos pouco estudados. Os resultados positivos justificam a continuidade dos estudos com esse biomaterial(AU)

The aim of this study was to produce chitosan hydrogel (CH) with PCL and herbal medicines for preventive use of pressure ulcers. The CH hydrogels were produced with glycerophosphate (GP) and xanthan (X), associated with PCL and were characterized by stereomicroscope, swelling, wettability and SEM. Subsequently, they were submitted to a viability test (MTT) with HFF-1 fibroblasts and HaCat keratinocytes. The hydrogel that presented the best result was chosen to continue the research. Subsequently, extracts of Pfaffia panculata K, Juglans regia L, Rosmarinus officinalis L, Zingiber officinale, Propolis and Hamamelis were placed in contact with strains of Staphylococcus aureus (Sa) (ATCC 6538), Streptococcus pyogenes (Sp) (ATCC 19615), epidermidis (Se) (ATCC 12228), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) (ATCC 15442), Escherichia coli (Ec) (ATCC 25922) and Klebsiella Pneumoniae (Kp) (ATCC 4352) in planktonic form in CIM and CMM tests. The two best herbal extracts were evaluated for synergism in the checkerboard test and subsequently associated with the previously elected hydrogel. Next, the behavior of HaCat and HFF-1 with hydrogels was analyzed by MTT, total protein, ELISA, genotoxicity and monotypic biofilm formation with standardized suspensions (107 cel / mL) of Sa, Se, Sp, Pa, Ec and Kp In the characterization and viability the CHX PCL hydrogel presented the best results. The extracts selected after MIC, CMM and checkerboard were ginger (G) and propolis (P). The G extract stood out in the MIC with inhibition of K. p and P. a. The extracts of G and P showed microbicidal action for K. p and P. a and only the extract P obtained microbicidal action for S. a in CMM. There was an additive action of the associated extracts on the checkerboard for S.p and an additive and synergistic action for S. e. The hydrogel groups were composed of: xanthan chitosan (CHX), CHX propolis (CHXP), CHX ginger (CHXG) and CHX propolis and ginger associated (CHXPG), all associated with PCL. All hydrogels demonstrated cell viability above 70% of the control group, allowing cellular metabolism observed in the total protein. There was a greater quantification of IL-6 in the CHX group in the two cell lines while the quantification of IL-10 did not show statistical difference between the groups. All hydrogels promoted a marked reduction in the biofilm of K.p and E.c. The CHX, CHXP and CHXG groups reduced S.e biofilm. The CHXG group reduced S.p. For S.a and P.a, the CHXPG group was more effective in reducing biofilm. We conclude that the hydrogels presented satisfactory and promising results, bringing innovation through association of biopolymers and association of phytotherapic extracts little studied. The positive results justify the continuity of studies with this biomaterial(AU)

Preparation and characterization of naftifine-loaded poly(vinyl alcohol)/sodium alginate electrospun nanofibers

In this study, naftifine (a topical antifungal drug) loaded poly(vinyl) alcohol (PVA)/sodium alginate (SA) nanofibrous mats were prepared using the single-needle electrospinning technique. The produced nanofibers were crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GTA) vapor. The morphology and diameter of the electrospun nanofibers were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM images showed the smoothness of the nanofibers and indicated that the fiber diameter increased with crosslinking and drug loading. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images confirmed the uniform production of the scaffolds, and elemental mapping via energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) showed the uniform distribution of the drug within the nanofibers. An attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy study demonstrated that naftifine has sufficient secondary interactions with the polymer blend. The crosslinking treatment decreased the burst drug release effectively and the release mechanism followed Korsmeyer-Peppas Super Case-II transport. Overall, these findings suggest the potential use of naftifine-loaded PVA/SA nanofibers as a topical antifungal drug delivery system.

Proliferation and differentiation of mouse spermatogonial stem cells on a three-dimensional surface composed of PCL/gel nanofibers / Proliferación y diferenciación de células madre espermatogónicas de ratón en una superficie tridimensional compuesta de nanofibras PCL / gel

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) have self-renewal and differentiation capacity essential for sperm production throughout the male reproductive life. The electrospun polycaprolactone/gelatin (PCL/Gel) nanofibrous scaffold mimics important features of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which can provide a promising technique for the proliferation and differentiation of SSCs in vitro. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effects of PCL/Gel nanofibrous scaffold on the propagation and differentiation of neonate mouse SSCs (mSSCs). mSSCs were enzymatically isolated, and the cells were purified by differential plating method and seeded on scaffold. After 2 weeks, viability, colony number and diameter, and expression of specific spermatogonial cell genes were investigated. After mSSCs propagation, the cells were cultivated in a differentiation medium on the scaffold for another 2 weeks, and differentiating cells were analyzed by real-time PCR. The number of mSSC colony (P<0.01) and expression levels of specific spermatogonial genes Plzf and Inga6 (P<0.01) and also differentiation genes c-Kit, Tp1 and Ptm1 (P<0.05) were higher in scaffold group compared with control during the culture period. We conclude that mSSCs can be expanded and can differentiate toward spermatid cells on PCL/Gel nanofibrous scaffold with improved developmental parameters.

Las células madre espermatogónicas (CME) tienen capacidad de auto renovación y diferenciación esenciales para la producción de esperma a lo largo de la vida reproductiva masculina. El «scaffold¼ nanofibroso de policaprolactona / gelatina (PCL / Gel) electrohilado imita características importantes de la matriz extracelular (MEC), que puede proporcionar una técnica prometedora para la proliferación y diferenciación de CME in vitro. El objetivo del presente estudio fue investigar los efectos del «scaffold¼ nanofibroso PCL / Gel en la propagación y diferenciación de CME de ratones neonatos (mSSC). Los mSSC se aislaron enzimáticamente y las células se purificaron mediante un método de siembra diferencial y se sembraron en un «scaffold¼. Después de 2 semanas, se investigaron la viabilidad, el número y el diámetro de las colonias y la expresión de genes específicos de células espermatogónicas. Después de la propagación de mSSC, las células se cultivaron en un medio de diferenciación en el «scaffold¼ durante otras 2 semanas, y las células se analizaron mediante PCR en tiempo real. El número de colonias mSSC (P <0,01) y los niveles de expresión de los genes espermatogónicos específicos Plzf e Inga6 (P <0,01) y también los genes de diferenciación c-Kit, Tp1 y Ptm1 (P <0,05) fueron mayores en el grupo de «scaffold¼ en comparación con el control durante el período de cultivo. Concluimos que los mSSC pueden expandirse y diferenciarse en células espermátidas en un «scaffold¼ de nanofibras PCL / Gel con parámetros de desarrollo mejorados.

Titanium Dioxide and Polyethylmethacrylate electrospun nanofibers: assessing the technique parameters and morphological characterization / Nanofibras eletrofiadas de dióxido de titânio e polietilmetacrilato: avaliação dos parâmetros da técnica e caracterização morfológica

This work studied the synthetization and morphological characterization of Polyethylmethacrylate (PEMA) nanofibers (NFs) containing titanium dioxide (TiO2) produced by the electrospinning technique. The solution to produce the nanofibers was prepared by dissolving 2.5g PEMA in 6.75mL of 1.1.2.2- tetrachloroethane and 3.375mL of dimethylformamide (DMF), and 0.405g of TiO2 was added to the solution. The nanofiber production used different distances between the tip of the needle to the collector (10, 12 and 15 cm) and two flow rates (0.05 mLh-1 and 0.08 mLh-1) were employed, while the applied voltage was 17kV. The NF morphology was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Image J software. We used Fourier Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS) to evaluate the structural properties. All parameters were effective in the NF production, however it was shown that the distance of 12 cm produced the best NFs. The mean diameters showed no statistically significant difference between the samples. The FTIR analysis showed characteristic peaks of PEMA and TiO2 . It was concluded that the employed method was efficient for NF production containing PEMA and TiO2 , and the morphological characteristics of the NFs were influenced by the voltage and distance. (AU)

O presente trabalho estudou a sintetização e a caracterização morfologica de nanofibras (NFs) de polietilmetacrilato (PEMA) contendo dióxido de titânio (TiO2) produzidas pela técnica da eletrofiação. A solução para o preparo das nanofibras utilizou 2,5 g de PEMA dissolvidos em 6,75 mL de 1,1,2,2 - tetracloroetano (TCE) e 3,337 mL de dimetilformamida (DMF), em sequência foi adicionado 0, 405g de TiO2 à solução. Para eletrofiação, o equipamento foi constituído por uma fonte de alta tensão, uma seringa plástica com agulha de ponta reta e as NFs obtidas foram coletadas em anteparo metálico a 10, 12 e 15 cm de distância da ponta da agulha. A tensão aplicada foi de 17 kV e o fluxo de ejecção variou de 0.05 mLh-1 e 0.08 mLh1. O diâmetro e a morfologia das NFs foram avaliados por meio de Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV) e pelo software Image J. A Espectroscopia por Transformada de Fourier (FTIR) e a Spectroscopia por energia dispersiva de raios X (EDS) avaliaram as propriedades estruturais. A análise morfológica das micrografias mostrou que a distância de 12cm da ponta da agulha até o coletor produziu as melhores NFs. O FTIR demonstrou picos característicos de PEMA e TiO2 . Diante dos resultados obtidos podemos concluir que o método empregado foi eficiente para a produção de NFs contendo PEMA e TiO2 e a variação da tensão e distancia influenciaram na morfologias das NFs.(AU)

Synthesis and morphological characterization of Polycaprolactone (PCL) membranes with tara extract (Caesalpinia spinosa) / Síntese e caracterização morfológica de membranas eletrofiadas de Policaprolactona (PCL) com extrato de tara (Caesalpinia spinosa)

Objective: This study aimed the synthesis and morphological characterization of PCL electrospun fibers containing tara extract. Material and Methods: For this, tara extract synthesis was performed by two different extraction methods: rotary evaporator and extractor soxhlet. Then, two solutions were prepared by dissolving 3g of PCL in 2mL of Acetone. The first solution used 0.4 mL tara extract obtained by RE and the second solution used 0.4 mL tara extract obtained by SE. After the solutions electrospinning, under different parameters, obtaining It was obtained the experimental groups: ChTa 1 nanofibers with RE extract, under 12 Kv; ChTa 2 nanofibers with RE extract, under 15 Kv; ChTa 3 nanofibers with ES extract, under 12Kv and ChTa 4 nanofibers with ES extract, under 15kV. Scanning electron micrographs were performed for morphological analysis. Results: Fiber formation was observed for all parameters. About the fiber diameter: ChTa 1 presented a mean of 0.82 ± 0.36µm, ChTa 2 1.232 ±0471µm, ChTa 3 1.469 ± 0.614µm and ChTa 4 1.017 ± 0.417. Also the beads formation was analyzed: ChTa 1 group presented 8 beads, ChTa 2 presented 5, ChTa 3 presented 30 and ChTa 4 presented 15 beads. Conclusion: It can be concluded that it is possible to obtain an effective synthesis of electrospun membranes of PCL and Caesalpinia spinosa extract, indicating a potential of therapeutic application for lesions such as prosthetic stomatitis. (AU)

Objetivo: Este estudo objetivou a síntese e a caracterização morfológica de fibras eletrofiadas de PCL contendo extrato de tara, caracterizando sua morfologia. Material e Métodos: Para isso, a síntese do extrato de Tara foi realizada por dois diferentes métodos de extração: Evaporador rotativo e Extrator de soxhlet. Em seguida, duas soluções foram preparadas dissolvendo 3g de PCL em 2 mL de acetona. A primeira solução utilizou 0,4 mL de extrato de Tara obtida por ER. A segunda solução utilizou 0,4 mL de extrato de Tara obtida por ES. Após as soluções serem eletrofiadas, sob diferentes parâmetros, obtiveram-se os grupos experimentais: ChTa 1 nanofibras com extrato de RE, sob 12Kv; ChTa 2 nanofibras com extrato de RE, sob 15Kv; ChTa 3 nanofibras com extrato de ES, com menos de 12Kv e nanofibras de ChTa 4 com extrato de ES, sob 15kV. Micrografias eletrônicas de varredura foram realizadas para análise morfológica. Resultados: A formação de fibras foi observada para todos os parâmetros. Quanto ao diâmetro da fibra: ChTa 1 apresentou uma média de 0,82 ± 0,36 µm, o ChTa 2 1,232 ± 0471 µm, o ChTa 3 1,469 ± 0,614 µm e o ChTa 4 1,017 ± 0,417. Também foi analisada a formação dos beads: o grupo ChTa 1 apresentou 8 beads, o ChTa 2 5, o ChTa 3 30 e o ChTa 4 15. Conclusão: Pôde-se concluir que é possível obter uma síntese efetiva de membranas eletrofiadas de extrato de PCL e Caesalpinia spinosa, indicando um potencial de aplicação terapêutica para lesões como a estomatite protética. (AU)

Desenvolvimento de biomateriais à base de quitosana: matriz de fibras eletrofiadas para regeneração tecidual e de hidrogel coacervado para entrega controlada de fármaco / Development of chitosan-based biomaterials: electrospun fiber matrix for tissue regeneration and coacervate hydrogel for controlled drug delivery

Os atuais avanços no desenvolvimento de biomateriais caminham para 2 áreas promissoras: a de regeneração tecidual e a de entrega controlada de fármacos. Assim, o presente estudo objetivou a síntese e caracterização de diferentes matrizes (fibras e hidrogel) à base de quitosana, a fim de se obter materiais biomiméticos para atuação em ambas áreas. Para regeneração, delineou-se a síntese de um arcabouço de fibras de quitosana com e sem cristais de nanohidroxiapatita onde, para isso, foram eletrofiadas soluções de quitosana (Ch) e de quitosana com nanohidroxiapatita (ChHa). Os espécimes de Ch apresentaram maior homogeneidade e maior diâmetro médio de fibras (690 ± 102 nm) que ChHa (358 ± 49 nm). No teste de viabilidade celular e na atividade da fosfatase alcalina não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos experimentais (Ch e ChHa), porém ambos diferiram do grupo controle (p < 0,001). Para o âmbito de liberação de fármacos, sintetizou-se, pela técnica de emulsão, dois tipos de hidrogéis: o primeiro, uma mistura da fase aquosa da solução de Ch (1 mL) e da solução de DNA (1 mL) (1:1) e o segundo, mistura da fase aquosa da solução de Ch (1 mL) e solução de Pectina (1 mL) (1:1). Ambas misturas foram realizadas em álcool benzílico (5 mL) com instrumento de dispersão de alto desempenho (31-34000 rpm min-1 por 5 min). Após a obtenção dos géis, 20mg de cada grupo foram imersos em uma solução aquosa de Própolis Verde (PV), na concentração de 70 µg/mL por 2 h e a cinética de liberação do PV foi analisada a 25 e 37oC em água e saliva artificial. Os espécimes obtidos foram liofilizados e depois caracterizados físicoquimicamente. A presença de pectina e de DNA foi comprovada por FTIR. A sorção de PV induziu uma modificação significativa da superfície do gel. Constatou-se uma separação de fases entre a quitosana e o DNA. A eficiência do encapsulamento não mudou significativamente entre 25 e 37oC. A cinética de liberação na água ou na saliva apresentou um mecanismo de duas etapas. E os resultados biológicos exibiram que esses materiais são aceitáveis no ambiente biológico. Assim, conclui-se que a matriz de fibras de quitosana com nHAp é capaz de promover diferenciação celular e a matriz de hidrogel de quitosana com Pectina ou DNA possui potencial para a liberação controlada de fármacos(AU)

Current advances in biomaterial development are moving to 2 promising areas: tissue regeneration and controlled drug delivery. Thus, the present study aimed the synthesis and characterization of different matrices (fibers and hydrogel) based on chitosan, in order to obtain biomimetic materials for performance in both areas. For regeneration, the synthesis of a scaffold of chitosan fibers with and without nanohydroxyapatite crystals was delineated, where chitosan (Ch) and chitosan with hydroxyapatite (ChHa) solutions were electrospun. Ch specimens presented higher homogeneity and larger mean fiber diameter (690±102nm) than ChHa (358 ± 49nm). In the cell viability test and alkaline phosphatase activity there was no statistical difference between the experimental groups. (Ch and ChHa), but both differed from the control group (p < 0,001). For the drug release scope, two types of hydrogels were synthesized by the emulsion technique: the first, a mixture of the aqueous phase of Ch solution (1 mL) and DNA solution (1 mL) (1:1) and the second, mixture of the aqueous phase of the Ch solution (1mL) and Pectin solution (1 mL) (1:1). Both mixtures were performed in benzyl alcohol (5 mL) with high performance dispersion instrument (31-34000 rpm min-1 for 5 min). After obtaining the gels, 20mg from each group were immersed in an aqueous solution of Propolis Green (PV), at a concentration of 70 µg/mL for 2 h and the release kinetics of PV were analyzed at 25 and 37oC in water and artificial saliva. The obtained specimens were lyophilized and then physically-chemically characterized. The presence of pectin and DNA was confirmed by FTIR. PV sorption induced a significant modification of the gel surface. A phase separation was found between chitosan and DNA. Encapsulation efficiency did not change significantly between 25 and 37oC. The release kinetics in water or saliva presented a two-step mechanism. And the biological results showed that these materials are acceptable in the biological environment. Thus, it is concluded that the nHAp chitosan fiber matrix is capable of promoting cell differentiation, whereas the chitosan hydrogel matrix with Pectin or DNA are potential biomaterials for controlled drug release(AU)

Doxycycline release and antibacterial activity from PMMA/PEO electrospun fiber mats

Abstract Objective: To investigate the use of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) electrospun fiber mats containing different amounts of polyethylene oxide (PEO) as a doxycycline delivery system and to test antibacterial activity against an oral pathogen. Methodology: PMMA powders or PEO (mol wt 200 Kd) (10,20,30% w/w/) were dissolved in N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF) to obtain a final polymer concentration of 15% in DMF (w/v). 2% Doxycycline monohydrate was added to the solutions and submitted to vortex mixing. The solution was transferred to a plastic syringe and fit into a nanofiber electrospinning unit. The parameters applied were: voltage at 17.2 kV; distance of 20 cm between the needle tip and the collector plate; target speed at 2 m/min; and transverse speed at 1cm/min. Syringe pump speed was 0.15 mm/min. The drug release analysis was performed by removing aliquots of the drug-containing solution (in PBS) at specific periods. Doxycycline release was quantified using RP-HPLC. Fiber mats from all groups had their antibacterial action tested against S. mutans based on inhibition halos formed around the specimens. The experiments were performed in triplicate. Gravimetric analysis at specific periods was performed to determine any polymer loss. Morphological characterization of the electrospun fibers was completed under an optical microscope followed by SEM analysis. Results: The addition of PEO to the PMMA fibers did not affect the appearance and diameter of fibers. However, increasing the %PEO caused higher doxycycline release in the first 24 h. Fibers containing 30% PEO showed statistically significant higher release when compared with the other groups. Doxycycline released from the fibers containing 20% or 30% of PEO showed effective against S. mutans. Conclusion: The incorporation of PEO at 20% and 30% into PMMA fiber mat resulted in effective drug release systems, with detected antibacterial activity against S. mutans.

Amphotericin-B and vancomycin-loaded chitosan nanofiber for antifungal and antibacterial application

In the present study, a mucoadhesive non-woven fiber mat (d= 116 nm) was fabricated by the electrospinning method using chitosan (80% Wt), polyethylene oxide (10% Wt), cysteine (4% Wt) and drugs (6% Wt), respectively. In addition, a comparative study was conducted to define effect of drugs and mucoadhesive agent on the nanofiber formation. FTIR, SEM, DSC and DMA were used to investigate the chemical and physical properties of the nanofibers. In vitro release of the drugs was assessed over a 48-hour period by the total immersion method. Release data were fitted to kinetic models, including the zero-order, first-order, Higuchi matrix, and Hixson-Crowell. Zone inhibition investigations were used to describe the inhibition content of vancomycin and amphotericin B loaded in the mats. The SEM images displayed a slight decrease in the fiber diameter with adding drugs and mucoadhesive agents. FTIR spectra confirmed that any undesirable reaction between VAN-AMB and CS-PEO was not observed. DSC test recognized the uniform distribution of drugs in the polymeric bead of the fiber without any crystal form. The elasticity modulus of the nanofiber was in an acceptable range for oral mucosa (approximately 5 Mpa). The results indicated that biodegradable mucoadhesive nanofibrous membranes released high concentrations of VAN in the first 24 hours, but the AMB release was affected in more controlled phenomena

Effects of electrospun collagen nanofibrous matrix on the biological behavior of human dental pulp cells / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To compare cell adhesion, proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) on electrospun collagen nanofibrous matrix (Col_NFM) with that on collagen flat film (Col-FF), to investigate the biological effect of collagen nanofibrous matrix on hDPCs.@*METHODS@#The surface morphology of the two different collagen scaffold was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the contact angle and the swelling ratio were also measured. Then hDPCs were implanted on the two different collagen scaffolds, the cell morphology was observed using SEM and laser scanning microscope (LSM), and cell proliferation was evaluated by the CCK-8 assay. After hDPCs cultured on the two different collagen scaffold with odontoblastic medium for 14 days, the expression of odontoblastic differentiation related genes was detected by real-time PCR, and alizarin red staining was used to test the formation of mineralized nodules.@*RESULTS@#From the SEM figures, the fibers' diameter of Col_NFM was (884±159) nm, and there were abundant three dimensional connected pore structures between the fibers of Col_NFM, while the surface of Col_FF was completely flat without pore structure. The contact angle at 0 s of Col_NFM was 85.03°±4.45°, and that of Col_FF was 98.98°±5.81°. The swelling ratio of Col_NFM was approximately 3 folds compared with dry weight sample, while that of Col_FF was just 1 fold. Thus Col_NFM indicated better hydrophilicity and swelling property. SEM and LSM showed that hDPCs on Col_NFM presented an irregular and highly branched phenotype, and could penetrate into the nanofibrous scaffold. In contrast, the cells were spread only on the surface of Col_FF with a spindle-shaped morphology. CCK-8 assays showed that hDPCs on Col_NFM showed higher proliferation rate than on Col_FF. After hDPCs were cultured on the two different collagen scaffolds with odontoblastic medium for 14 days, more expressions of odontoblastic differentiation related genes, such as dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and dentin matrix proten-1 (DMP1) were determined in Col_NFM group (P<0.05), and more mineralization depositions were also observed in Col_NFM group according to the results of alizarin red staining.@*CONCLUSION@#Col_NFM with nanoscale microstructure achieves better hydrophilic and swelling properties than Col_FF, and hDPCs cultured with Col_NFM present higher activity on cell adhesion, proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation.

Chirality Self-assembling peptide for rats endometrial regeneration model / 生物工程学报

Here we investigate the physical and chemical properties of chiral self-assembling peptides and the role of uterine trauma regeneration. The circular dichroism was used to analyze secondary structure of chiral self-assembled peptide, and Congo red staining was used to observe the macroscopic process of peptide self-assembling. Erythrocyte lysis assay was used to examine the cleavage of peptide on cell membrane. The nanofiber scaffolds self-assembled by Chiral self-assembling peptides were used as the three-dimensional culture material to observe the growth effect of Hela cell. CCK-8 (cell counting kit-8) was used to study cell viability level between 2D (2-dimensional) and 3D (3-dimensional) culture environment. Rats endometrium curettage model was founded to evaluate the changes by immunohistochemistry staining and and HE staining. The secondary structure of chiral self-assembling peptides was stable β-sheet, and peptide could form dense membrane structure after 24 hours self-assembling cultured in salt ions. There was no harmful for the cell membrane of the peptide before and after self-assembling. Animal experiments show that chiral self-assembling peptide can significantly reduce the inflammatory response, promote the production of neovascularization, and accelerate the repair process. Chiral self-assembling peptide, as a new type of scaffold material, can construct a three-dimensional cell culture environment and used to repair uterine trauma.

Hybrid Nanofiber Scaffold-Based Direct Conversion of Neural Precursor Cells/Dopamine Neurons

The concept of cellular reprogramming was developed to generate induced neural precursor cells (iNPCs)/dopaminergic (iDA) neurons using diverse approaches. Here, we investigated the effects of various nanoscale scaffolds (fiber, dot, and line) on iNPC/iDA differentiation by direct reprogramming. The generation and maturation of iDA neurons (microtubule-associated protein 2-positive and tyrosine hydroxylase-positive) and iNPCs (NESTIN-positive and SOX2-positive) increased on fiber and dot scaffolds as compared to that of the flat (control) scaffold. This study demonstrates that nanotopographical environments are suitable for direct differentiation methods and may improve the differentiation efficiency.

Radially patterned polycaprolactone nanofibers as an active wound dressing agent

BACKGROUND: The objectives of this study were to design polycaprolactone nanofibers with a radial pattern using a modified electrospinning method and to evaluate the effect of radial nanofiber deposition on mechanical and biological properties compared to non-patterned samples. METHODS: Radially patterned polycaprolactone nanofibers were prepared with a modified electrospinning method and compared with randomly deposited nanofibers. The surface morphology of samples was observed under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The tensile properties of nanofibrous mats were measured using a tabletop uniaxial testing machine. Fluorescence-stained human bone marrow stem cells were placed along the perimeter of the radially patterned and randomly deposited. Their migration toward the center was observed on days 1, 4, and 7, and quantitatively measured using ImageJ software. RESULTS: Overall, there were no statistically significant differences in mechanical properties between the two types of polycaprolactone nanofibrous mats. SEM images of the obtained samples suggested that the directionality of the nanofibers was toward the central area, regardless of where the nanofibers were located throughout the entire sample. Florescence images showed stronger fluorescence inside the circle in radially aligned nanofibers, with significant differences on days 4 and 7, indicating that migration was quicker along radially aligned nanofibers than along randomly deposited nanofibers. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we successfully used modified electrospinning to fabricate radially aligned nanofibers with similar mechanical properties to those of conventional randomly aligned nanofibers. In addition, we observed faster migration along radially aligned nanofibers than along randomly deposited nanofibers. Collectively, the radially aligned nanofibers may have the potential for tissue regeneration in combination with stem cells.

Hybrid Additive Microfabrication Scaffold Incorporated with Highly Aligned Nanofibers for Musculoskeletal Tissues

BACKGROUND: Latest tissue engineering strategies for musculoskeletal tissues regeneration focus on creating a biomimetic microenvironment closely resembling the natural topology of extracellular matrix. This paper presents a novel musculoskeletal tissue scaffold fabricated by hybrid additive manufacturing method. METHODS: The skeleton of the scaffold was 3D printed by fused deposition modeling, and a layer of random or aligned polycaprolactone nanofibers were embedded between two frames. A parametric study was performed to investigate the effects of process parameters on nanofiber morphology. A compression test was performed to study the mechanical properties of the scaffold. Human fibroblast cells were cultured in the scaffold for 7 days to evaluate the effect of scaffold microstructure on cell growth. RESULTS: The tip-to-collector distance showed a positive correlation with the fiber alignment, and the electrospinning time showed a negative correlation with the fiber density. With reinforced nanofibers, the hybrid scaffold demonstrated superior compression strength compared to conventional 3D-printed scaffold. The hybrid scaffold with aligned nanofibers led to higher cell attachment and proliferation rates, and a directional cell organization. In addition, there was a nonlinear relationship between the fiber diameter/density and the cell actinfilament density. CONCLUSION: This hybrid biofabrication process can be established as a highly efficient and scalable platform to fabricate biomimetic scaffolds with patterned fibrous microstructure, and will facilitate future development of clinical solutions for musculoskeletal tissue regeneration.

Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Various Nanofibre Reinforced Bis-GMA/TEGDMA Based Dental Composite Resins / Evaluación de las propiedades mecánicas de varias resinas compuestas dentales basadas en Bis-GMA/TEGDMA reforzadas con nanofibras

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the mechanical properties of various mass fractions of Nylon 6 (N6), polymethyl-metacrylate (PMMA) and polyvinylidene-difluoride (PVDF) nanofibres reinforced bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA) and tri-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) based dental composite resins and to evaluate the penetration characteristics of the nanofibres into the resin. Methods: Nylon 6, PMMA and PVDF nanofibres were produced using the electrospinning method. The morphologies of the fabricated nanofibres were evaluated with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The nanofibres were placed into the resin matrix at different mass fractions (3%, 5% and 7%). The three-point bending test was applied to nanofibre-reinforced dental composite resins and neat resin specimens. The flexural strength (Fs), flexural modulus (EY) and work of fracture (WOF) of the groups were found. The analysis of variance was used for the statistical analysis of the acquired data. Tukey 's multiple test was performed to compare the Fs, EY and WOF means. Fractured surfaces of the samples were observed by SEM, and fracture morphologies were evaluated. Results: Polymethyl-metacrylate nanofibres dissolved in the matrix, and a polymer alloy took place in the matrix. Fibre pull-out and fibre bridging mechanisms were observed by SEM images of the N6 and PVDF nanofibre-reinforced dental composites. The produced nanofibres enhanced the mechanical properties of the dental composite resins. Conclusion: Fibre pull-out and fibre bridging mechanisms on the fractured surfaces of samples may play a key role in the reinforcement of dental composite resins. However, polymer alloy of PMMA nanofibres increased the mechanical properties of the resin matrix.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Investigar las propiedades mecánicas de resinas compuestas dentales basadas en bisfenol A-diglicidildimetacrilato (Bis-GMA) y dimetacrilato trietilen-glicol (TEGDMA) reforzadas con nanofibras de fracciones de masa de Nylon 6 (N6), polimetilmetacrilato (PMMA) y fluoruro de polivinilideno (PVDF), y evaluar las características de la penetración de las nanofibras en la resina. Métodos: Se produjeron nanofibras de Nylon 6, PMMA y PVDF utilizando el método de electrohilado (electrospinning). Las morfologías de las nanofibras fabricadas fueron evaluadas con un microscopio electrónico de barrido (MEB). Las nanofibras fueron introducidas en la matriz de resina en diferentes fracciones de masa (3%, 5% y 7%). La prueba de flexión de tres puntos fue aplicada a las resinas compuestas dentales reforzadas por nanofibras y a las muestras de resina pura. La resistencia a la flexión (Rf), el módulo de flexión (EY) y el trabajo de fractura (WOF) de los grupos fueron halladas. El análisis de varianza se usó para el análisis estadístico de los datos adquiridos. Se realizó la prueba de comparaciones múltiples de Tukey con el propósito de comparar las medidas de Rf, EY y WOF. Las superficies fracturadas de las muestras fueron observadas mediante un MEB, y se evaluaron las morfologías de fractura. Resultados: Las nanofibras de polimetilmetacrilato se disolvieron en la matriz, y tuvo lugar una aleación de polímeros en la matriz. Los mecanismos de desprendimiento de fibras y puenteo de fibras fueron observados mediante imágenes de MEB de los compuestos dentales reforzados con nanofibras de N6 y PVDF. Las nanofibras producidas realzaron las propiedades mecánicas de las resinas compuestas dentales. Conclusión: Los mecanismos de desprendimiento de fibras y puenteo de fibras en las superficies fracturadas de las muestras pueden desempeñar un papel clave en el reforzamiento de las resinas de los compuestos dentales. Sin embargo, la aleación polimérica de las nanofibras de PMMA aumentó las propiedades mecánicas de la matriz de resina.

Development of the Three-Dimensional Perfusion Culture Technology for the Salivary Ductal Cells

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Salivary hypofunction is one of the common side effects after radioiodine therapy, and its pathophysiology is salivary ductal stenosis resulting from ductal cell injury. This study aimed to develop the functional culture environment of human parotid gland ductal cells in in vitro three-dimensional perfusion culture system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared plastic dish culture method and three-dimensional culture system containing Matrigel and nanofiber. Morphogenesis of reconstituted salivary structures was assessed by histomorphometry. Functional characteristics were assessed by immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (aquaporin 5, CK7, CK18, connexin 43, and p21). In addition, we designed the media perfusion culture system and identified higher rate of cell proliferation and expression of connexin 43 in perfusion system comparing to dish. RESULTS: Human parotid ductal cells were well proliferated with the ductal cell characters under environment with Matrigel. In the presence of Matrigel, aquaporin 5, CK18 and connexin 43 were more expressed than 2D dish and 3D nanofiber setting. In the media perfusion culture system, ductal cells in 3D culture media showed higher cells count and connexin 43 expression compared to 2D dish. CONCLUSION: This in vitro ductal cell perfusion culture system using Matrigel could be used to study for radioiodine induced sialadenitis model in vivo.

A Comparison of the Effects of Silica and Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles on Poly(ε-caprolactone)-Poly(ethylene glycol)-Poly(ε-caprolactone)/Chitosan Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering

BACKGROUND: The major challenge of tissue engineering is to develop constructions with suitable properties which would mimic the natural extracellular matrix to induce the proliferation and differentiation of cells. Poly(ε-caprolactone)-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL-PEG-PCL, PCEC), chitosan (CS), nano-silica (n-SiO₂) and nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) are biomaterials successfully applied for the preparation of 3D structures appropriate for tissue engineering. METHODS: We evaluated the effect of n-HA and n-SiO₂ incorporated PCEC-CS nanofibers on physical properties and osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, thermogravimetric analysis, contact angle and mechanical test were applied to evaluate the physicochemical properties of nanofibers. Cell adhesion and proliferation of hDPSCs and their osteoblastic differentiation on nanofibers were assessed using MTT assay, DAPI staining, alizarin red S staining, and QRT-PCR assay. RESULTS: All the samples demonstrated bead-less morphologies with an average diameter in the range of 190–260 nm. The mechanical test studies showed that scaffolds incorporated with n-HA had a higher tensile strength than ones incorporated with n-SiO₂. While the hydrophilicity of n-SiO₂ incorporated PCEC-CS nanofibers was higher than that of samples enriched with n-HA. Cell adhesion and proliferation studies showed that n-HA incorporated nanofibers were slightly superior to n-SiO₂ incorporated ones. Alizarin red S staining and QRT-PCR analysis confirmed the osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs on PCEC-CS nanofibers incorporated with n-HA and n-SiO₂. CONCLUSION: Compared to other groups, PCEC-CS nanofibers incorporated with 15 wt% n-HA were able to support more cell adhesion and differentiation, thus are better candidates for bone tissue engineering applications.