Fabrication and evaluation of cell-compatibility and in-vitro biodegradation of PGS/CaTIO3 composite for nerve conduit application

Abstract

Background: Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is a novel biological polymer for biomedical application with high biocompatibility, mechanical properties near to soft tissues of body and a adaptability of properties during synthesis. But, this polymer tends to undergo rather rapid biodegradation which is usually faster than peripheral nerve regeneration and needs optimization of degradability properties for using as a nerve conduit. Methods: First, PGS pre-polymer was synthesized and then, equal to 5 of its weight, calcium titanate ceramic, which is highly biocompatible, was added to it and the acquired mixture was exposed to heat in vacuum oven to increase its strength. The obtained biocomposite came under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, in-vitro biodegradation and cytotoxicity evaluation. Findings: A composite with high particle distribution was obtained which represented a chemical bond between its two precursors. The in-vitro degradation time showed 23 reduction in overall weight loss for the composite in comparison to pure PGS over a period of 60 days degradation. The cell culture showed more than 90 of viability after 5 days of culture for the composite. Conclusion: Regarding to biodegradation rate, molecular mass and high cytocompatibility, this composite is encouraging enough to merit further investigation for nerve conduit application. © 2016, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.