Evaluation of Captopril-Loaded Polycaprolactone/Carbon Quantum Dots Composite Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering

Abstract

Introduction: Electrospinning method with the ability to make porous parts similar to bone matrix is a suitable method for making bone scaffolds. On the other hand, the use of drugs in inducing osteogenesis along with tissue engineering scaffolds is very important as a new approach in repairing damaged bone. The aim of the study was to evaluate the MG63 cells behavior with electrospun nanocomposite scaffolds of polycaprolactone and carbon quantum dot containing captopril for bone tissue engineering.

Methods: The microstructure of synthesized CQDs was evaluated by both transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The microstructure and hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity ratio of scaffolds were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and wettability test, respectively. The mechanical strength of the scaffolding was measured using a tensile test. The cell viability, attachment, proliferation, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of scaffolds were assessed using MG-63 cell line in vitro. Based on our results, the scaffold containing CQDs and CP led to a significant increase in the cells’ proliferation and ALP activity.

Results: The results of cell culture showed an increase in the growth of MG-63 cells on nanocomposite scaffolds containing 0.5% by weight of quantum dot carbon and 10% captopril compared to other scaffolds. In addition, a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase secretion on nanocomposite scaffolds containing 0.5% by weight of quantum dot carbon and 10% of captopril was quite evident.

Conclusion: Therefore, the PCL/CQDs/CP scaffold has a promising potential for bone tissue regeneration.