3D scaffold fabrication with PPF/DEF using micro-stereolithography

Current studies on scaffold fabrication have focused on overcoming the limitations imposed by the mechanical properties of existing biodegradable materials and the irregular structures they produce. Recently, several promising biodegradable materials were introduced, including poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF). In addition, the development of micro-stereolithography allows the fabrication of free-form 3D microstructures by dividing a desired shape into several slices of a given thickness. This technology, however, requires a low-viscosity resin to fabricate fine structures, which excludes the use of PPF. To fabricate precise 3D scaffolds using micro-stereolithography, we created a system in which the viscosity of PPF was reduced by adding diethyl fumarate. The fabricated scaffold was sterilized, and fibroblasts in cell culture medium were seeded onto the structure. Cells were fixed and freeze-dried after 4, 7, and 28 days of culture. Under scanning electron microscopy, we observed that the cells were able to attach to the scaffold surface and grow. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.