Controlled pore anisotropy in chitosan-gelatin cryogels for use in bone tissue engineering

Abstract

In tissue engineering, the development of an appropriate scaffold is crucial to provide a framework for new tissue growth. The use of cryogels as scaffolds shows promise due to their macroporous structure, but the pore size, distribution, and interconnectivity is highly variable depending on the fabrication process. The objective of the current research is to provide a technique for controlled anisotropy in chitosan-gelatin cryogels to develop scaffolds for bone tissue engineering application. A mold was developed using additive manufacturing to be used during the freezing process in order to fabricate cryogels with a more interconnected pore structure. The scaffolds were tested to evaluate their porosity, mechanical strength, and to observe cell infiltration through the cryogel. It was found that the use of the mold allowed for the creation of designated pores within the cryogel structure which facilitated cell infiltration to the center of the scaffold without sacrificing mechanical integrity of the structure.