Promoting Cell Migration in Tissue Engineering Scaffolds with Graded Channels

Ideal bone scaffolds having good biocompatibility, good biodegradability, and beneficial mechanical properties are the basis for bone tissue engineering. Specifically, cell migration within 3D scaffolds is crucial for bone regeneration of critical size defects. In this research, hydroxyapatite scaffolds with three different types of architectures (tortuous, parallel, and graded channels) are fabricated using the freeze-casting (ice-templating) method. While most studies promote cell migration by chemical factors, it can be greatly enhanced by introducing only graded channels as compared with tortuous or parallel channels. The results provide insights and guidance in designing novel scaffolds to enhance cell migration behavior for bone tissue regeneration.

Cell migration within 3D scaffolds is crucial for bone regeneration at critical size defects. Here, hydroxyapatite scaffolds with different microstructures are fabricated. Cell migration is greatly promoted within the scaffolds with graded channels comparing with those having tortuous or parallel channels. The results provide new insights and guidance for designing novel scaffolds to regulate cell migration behavior for bone regeneration.

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