In vitro Cartilage Regeneration using Primary Chondrocytes Cultured within Porous Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) Scaffolds

Cartilage injuries are frequent nowadays. The previous surgical treatment of cartilage defect was limited. Another approach in the treatment of cartilage injuries is the use of reconstitute cartilage consisting of chondrocytes cultured in suitable biodegradable scaffolds. Current studies have demonstrated the compatibility of chondrocytes with different biomaterials and the chondrogenesis in various types of porous scaffolds. The cell ingrowth into the porous scaffolds is modulated by initial cell loading efficiency. Therefore, well-interconnected pore structure and even pore distribution of the scaffolds are essential for efficient cell seeding. According to our previous work, well-interconnected macroporous scaffolds can be prepared by gas-foaming/salt-leaching method using ammonium bicarbonate salt as porogen additives. In this work, primary chondrocytes were cultured in PLGA 65/35 scaffolds fabricated by using our method. Cells seeded in the scaffolds showed well distribution by agitated seeding method. Histochemical staining of proteoglycans present in the scaffolds was used to visualize the chondrocyte ingrowth in the scaffolds. At 3 weeks, the population of chondrocytes was increased for the most part of the scaffolds, and extra cellular matrix (ECM) secretion was increased as culture periods progressed.