Immobilization of thrombocytes on PCL nanofibres enhances chondrocyte proliferation in vitro

Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop functionalized nanofibres as a simple delivery system for growth factors (GFs) and make nanofibre cell-seeded scaffold implants a one-step intervention. Materials and methods: We have functionalized polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibres with thrombocytes adherent on them. Immobilized, these thrombocytes attached to nanofibre scaffolds were used as a nanoscale delivery system for native (autologous) proliferation and differentiation factors, in vitro. Pig chondrocytes were seeded on the thrombocyte-coated scaffolds and levels of proliferation and differentiation of these cells were compared with those seeded on non-coated scaffolds. Results: Immobilized thrombocytes on PCL nanofibres effectively enhanced chondrocyte proliferation due to time-dependent degradation of thrombocytes and release of their GFs. Conclusions: These simply functionalized scaffolds present new possibilities for nanofibre applications, as smart cell scaffolds equipped with a GF delivery tool.