Cystine dimethyl ester cross-linked PEG-poly(urethane-urea)/nano-hydroxyapatite composited biomimetic scaffold for bone defect repair

Abstract

Polyurethane (PU) and polyurea (PUA) materials have shown significant potential for application in tissue repair. Herein, we design a glycerol ethoxylate (PEG)-based poly(urethane-urea) for bone tissue repair. The polymer precursor was prepared from the reaction of PEG and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI). The cystine dimethyl ester was used as a cross-linker for the preparation of poly(urethane-urea) elastomers. The material was further strengthened by physical blending of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA). The physical and biological properties of final material were evaluated by mechanical testing, scanning electron microscopy characterization, degradation tests, cell proliferation and cell differentiation assays. The obtained scaffolds showed good mechanical strength, excellent biocompatibility and osteogenic capability. All the evidences demonstrated that this type of materials has good prospects for bone tissue repair application.

Keywords:

• Polyurethane
• nano-hydroxyapatite
• biomimetic scaffold
• bone defect repair

Acknowledgements

None of the authors has a financial interest or other interest in any of the products, devices, or methods mentioned in this article. No received in support of research work and funds to cover publication costs.

Additional information

Funding

No funds were received in support of this work.