The Effect Of Osteogenesis on the Mechanical Properties of a 3-D Polylactic Acid Scoffold

Abstract

Poly-Lactic Acid is used widely in biomedical applications due to its good biocompatibility (i.e. biological and chemical inertness) and biodegradability. The area of tissue Engineering has been explored for the regeneration of human organs and tissues. This study explores the structure and the mechanical properties of 3D PLA scaffolds that are cultured with human osteoblasts for bone regeneration. The initial stages of cell spreading and interactions are studied along with the mechanical properties of the scaffolds before and after cell spreading and interactions. The effects of simulated body fluid are also studied to provide insights into the potential degradation that can occur during exposure to human body fluids. The implications of the work are discussed for the integration of 3D PLA scaffolds during the initial stages of bone regeneration and repair.