RGD functionalized poly(ε-caprolactone)/poly(m-anthranilic acid) electrospun nanofibers as high-performing scaffolds for bone tissue engineering RGD functionalized PCL/P3ANA nanofibers

RGD functionalized nanofibers of poly(epsilon-caprolactone)/poly(m-anthranilic acid) (PCL/P3ANA) were fabricated to address the mechanical, structural and functional requirements of bone tissue engineering. Nanofibers containing the highest amount of P3ANA with more carboxyl groups for functionalization have exhibited higher surface area and better mechanical properties. FTIR-ATR and UV-visible measurements evidenced the covalent RGD immobilization. After RGD peptide immobilization, the surface properties of nanofibers changed as evidenced by contact angle and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The effects of RGD functionalized nanofibers (PCL/P3ANA-RGD) on Saos-2 cell attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic activity were investigated. PCL/P3ANA-RGD nanofibers favored cell attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic activity.