Poly(DL-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) and poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) blends for biomedical application: Physical properties, cell compatibility, and in vitro degradation behavior

ABSTRACT

Poly(DL-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) and poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) blends of various compositions were prepared. Fractured sections of PLCL/PLGA blends did not evidence phase separation and blend glass transition temperatures suggested some degree of blend compatibility. The elastic modulus showed a negative deviation from the additive law of mixture. Superior biocompatibility in terms of fibroblast NIH 3T3 cell adhesion and proliferation, better mechanical properties, and a more homogeneous phase were obtained with PLCL/PLGA 25/75 blend. Rapid degradation of PLCL phase (4–8 weeks) in PLCL/PLGA 25/75 blend led to a porous structure, which makes it a potential candidate for drug delivery systems.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Cast blend film
• compatibility between blend components
• poly(DL-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone)
• poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide)
• regenerative medicine device

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to Dr. Clara Mattu for SEM analysis.