Biocompatible graphene-embedded PCL/PGS-based nanofibrous scaffolds: A potential application for cardiac tissue regeneration

Abstract

Research in the field of tissue engineering, especially heart tissue engineering, is growing rapidly. Herein, the morphological, chemical, mechanical and biological properties of poly (caprolactone) (PCL)/poly (glycerol sebacate) (PGS) and PCL/PGS/graphene nanofibrous scaffolds are investigated. Initially, PGS pre-polymer is synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies. Then, in order to use the benefits of PGS, this polymer is mixed with PCL. Blending PGS with PCL resulted in the enhancement of ultimate elongation and reduction in the elastic modulus due to the intrinsic properties of PGS. The hydrophobicity of PCL nanofibers is reduced by adding PGS as hydrophilic polymer (105 +/- 3 degrees vs. 44 +/- 2 degrees). Also, the addition of graphene to the blend nanofibers is balanced the hydrophilicity. Degradation rate of pure PCL nanofibers is very slow but it is increased in the presence of PGS. All nanofibrous scaffolds are biocompatible and non-toxic. The highest cell adhesion (covered area = 0.916 +/- 0.032) and biocompatibility (98.79 +/- 1) are related to PCL/PGS loaded with 1 wt of graphene (PCL/PGS/graphene (1)). Thus, this sample can be a good candidate for further examinations of cardiac tissue engineering.