Preparation, realization and chemical, physical and biological characterization of polymeric scaffolds for the production of patches used in the cardiovascular sector

Abstract

The main goal of this project was the development and characterization of highly interconnected porous scaffolds for cardiac tissue regeneration. Highly interconnected pores promote cell migration and exchange of nutrients. Different biopolymer were investigated, including polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(glycerol - sebacate) (PGS). Electrospinning and lyophilisation were used to develop biodegradable cardiac patches with different porosities. In addition, PGS-PCL foams were obtained via lyophilisation with different porosities. In addition, highly interconnect porous PGS structures were obtained using a PVA template which was prepared prior via lyophilisation. Furthermore, PGS-PCL electrospun fibrous mat were imprinted with topographical cues using a laser printed silicon wafer to enhance cell guidance. The prepared scaffolds were investigated and characterized by several analytical techniques. Microstructural analysis, physico-chemical properties and material degradation behavior in PBS were investigated. Moreover cell culture studies were performed to study the effect of the topographical cues on the cell behavior