Evaluation of alginate-chitosan semi IPNs as cartilage scaffolds.

In this study, alginate and alginate:chitosan semi interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) scaffolds were prepared by freeze-drying process. Alginate scaffolds were crosslinked with different concentrations of CaCl(2), i.e. 0.5, 1 or 3% (w/v), in 96% (v/v) ethanol solutions for two different periods, i.e. 4 and 24 h, after freeze-drying. Scanning electron microscope (SEM)/ Energy Dispersive Analysis by X-ray (EDAX) analysis and swelling studies indicated that crosslinking of scaffolds with 3% (w/v) CaCl(2) for 24 h was effectively created suitable alginate scaffolds in terms of optimum porosity and mechanical stability. This is why, alginate:chitosan semi IPN scaffolds were prepared at the crosslinking condition mentioned above in 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50% (v/v) alginate:chitosan ratios. Besides the attachment and proliferation abilities of ATDC5 murine chondrogenic cells on alginate, 70:30% (v/v) alginate:chitosan and 50:50% (v/v) alginate:chitosan scaffolds, their cellular responses were assessed for chondrogenic potential. These structural and cellular outcomes demonstrate potential utility of chitosan semi IPNs in alginate scaffolds. Comparative results found in relation to alginate scaffolds, support the necessity for alginate:chitosan scaffolds for improved cartilage tissue engineering.