In Vitro Comparison of PU, PU-CA, and PU-CA-GO scaffolds to evaluate osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells

Abstract Background Nanoscale scaffolds play a significant role in bone tissue engineering due to their appropriate biological activity which could be increased by the presence of nanoparticles such as graphene oxide (GO). This study aimed to develop a scaffold based on polyurethane (PU), cellulose acetate (CA), and GO nanoparticles for bone tissue engineering by electrospinning technique. Methods In this study, the scaffolds including PU, PU-CA, and PU-CA-GO, were prepared to assess the differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) into bone. The scaffolds were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FTIR, water contact angle, and tensile test. After cell culture, SEM, DAPI staining, and MTT assay were performed. Then, alizarin red staining (ARS), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and calcium maps were employed to evaluate the differentiation potential of MSCs. Results The results showed that GO nanoparticles were successfully distributed with PU-CA polymer without any agglomerations. The PU-CA-based scaffolds created hydrophilic surfaces that supported cell attachment and proliferation and provided a better milieu for cells. Also, GO increased the strain and Young modulus of the scaffolds and also, better osteogenic differentiation. ALP activity, calcium deposition, and ARS indicated that PU-CA-GO scaffold enables a suitable matrix for the osteogenic differentiation of AD-MSCs. Conclusion In general, the porous electrospun PU-CA-GO scaffold with desirable mechanical properties, could increase osteogenic differentiation of AD-MSCs. Hence, this scaffold could be considered as a favorable biodegradable candidate for bone tissue engineering. However, animal evaluations should be considered in future investigations.