Enhanced osteoinductive capacity of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid and biphasic ceramic scaffolds by embedding simvastatin

Objectives This study evaluated the effect of embedding simvastatin (SIM) on the osteoinductive capacity of PLGA + HA/beta TCP scaffolds in stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED). Materials and methods Scaffolds were produced by PLGA solvent dissolution, addition of HA/beta TCP, solvent evaporation, and leaching of sucrose particles to impart porosity. Biphasic ceramic particles (70% HA/30% beta TCP) were added to the PLGA in a 1:1 (w:w) ratio. Scaffolds with SIM received 1% (w:w) of this medication. Scaffolds were synthesized in a disc-shape and sterilized by ethylene oxide. The experimental groups were (G1) PLGA + HA/beta TCP and (G2) PLGA + HA/beta TCP + SIM in non-osteogenic culture medium, while (G3) SHED and (G4) MC3T3-E1 in osteogenic culture medium were the positive control groups. The release profile of SIM from scaffolds was evaluated. DNA quantification assay, alkaline phosphatase activity, osteocalcin and osteonectin proteins, extracellular calcium detection, von Kossa staining, and X-ray microtomography were performed to assess the capacity of scaffolds to induce the osteogenic differentiation of SHED. Results The release profile of SIM followed a non-liner sustained-release rate, reaching about 40% of drug release at day 28. Additionally, G2 promoted the highest osteogenic differentiation of SHED, even when compared to the positive control groups. Conclusions In summary, the osteoinductive capacity of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid and biphasic ceramic scaffolds was expressively enhanced by embedding simvastatin.

Automated summary

The study showed that embedding simvastatin in PLGA + HA/β-TCP scaffolds significantly enhanced the osteoinductive capacity of the scaffolds. The release profile of simvastatin was sustained over time, reaching 40% drug release at day 28. Scaffold with simvastatin promoted the highest osteogenic differentiation of SHED compared to control groups.