3D-printed HA15-loaded β-Tricalcium Phosphate/Poly (Lactic-co-glycolic acid) Bone Tissue Scaffold Promotes Bone Regeneration in Rabbit Radial Defects
In this study, a bone tissue scaffold composed of β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) was loaded with the osteogenesis-promoting drug HA15 and fabricated using three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. This drug delivery system, which combines favorable biomechanical properties, bone conduction capabilities, and localized release of osteogenic drugs, holds potential for treating bone defects. The scaffold’s biomechanical properties were assessed through compressive testing, demonstrating properties similar to those of cancellous bone. Additionally, the scaffold’s microstructure, pore morphology, and overall condition were examined. The study also explored the drug release profile, the effect of HA15 in both in vitro and in vivo rabbit radial defect models, and the scaffold’s ability to repair bone defects. The results indicated that the HA15-loaded scaffold promoted cell differentiation into osteoblasts in vitro by targeting HSPA5. Micro-computed tomography scans revealed that, after 12 weeks of implantation, the scaffold successfully repaired the bone defect in the rabbit radius, with peripheral blood vessel regeneration observed. The data suggest that HA15 targets HSPA5 to inhibit endoplasmic reticulum stress, ultimately enhancing osteogenesis, bone regeneration, and angiogenesis in the rabbit model. In conclusion, the 3D-printed β-TCP/PLGA scaffold loaded with HA15 offers a promising alternative material for the treatment of bone defects due to its unique biomechanical properties and bone-conductive potential.