The Effects of Bioactive Nanoparticles on the Degradation of DLGA

Abstract

The effect of bioactive nanoparticles on the in vitro degradation of DLGA composite scaffolds is investigated. Fabricated by thermally induced phase separation, the scaffolds present a high porosity (>90%). In vitro degradation is performed by immersing the scaffolds in a phosphate buffered saline solution, to evaluate water absorption, pH change, and weight loss. Chain scission by hydrolysis reduces the average molecular weight and increases the polydispersity index. The incorporation of modified hydroxyapatite nanoparticles significantly affects the DLGA degradation process, inducing appreciable changes in the morphology of the material, but not in its percentage of porosity. Nanohydroxyapatite blocks the entry of water, reducing the degradation rates.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• Biodegradable polymer
• degradation
• in vitro
• nanohydroxyapatite
• pH
• scaffolds

Acknowledgments

Technical and human support provided by SGIker (UPV/EHU, MICINN, GV/EJ, ERDF, and ESF) is really appreciated.