Porous poly(L-lactic acid) nanocomposite scaffolds with functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles: properties, cytocompatibility and drug release capability

Cytocompatibility is one of the most important aspects in evaluating biomaterials for tissue engineering applications. In this study, biodegradable polymer scaffolds based on nanocomposites of poly(l-lactic acid) and TiO2 nanoparticles functionalized with oleic acid (5 and 10 wt%) were prepared by thermally induced phase separation method. The aim of this research was to evaluate the properties of nanocomposite scaffolds and to investigate the influence of functionalized nanofiller on their bioactivity, biodegradability and cytocompatibility. The nanocomposite scaffolds showed bioactivity in supersaturated fluids and reduced biodegradation in simulated body fluid when compared to pure PLA scaffold. Cell viability and proliferation potential in contact with nanocomposite scaffolds were tested via MTT assay, while the scaffolds cytotoxic potential was evaluated using lactate dehydrogenase method. It was found that incorporation of functionalized TiO2 nanofiller with content of 5 wt% in the corresponding PLA matrix has a significant positive effect on the cell viability and proliferation, while at higher nanofiller content (10 wt%), insignificant cell proliferation and increased cytotoxicity were confirmed. Furthermore, PLA/TiO2-OA nanocomposite scaffolds were proved as promising materials for drug delivery.