Characterization of Hyaluronic Acid - Alginate - Divinyl Sulfone Scaffold for Cartilage Tissue Regeneration

Abstract

Aim - Cartilage engineering holds tremendous potential for addressing cartilage defects and diseases. To facilitate successful cartilage formation, it is imperative to develop composite scaffolds that closely replicate the natural extracellular matrix of cartilage. This study delves into the characterization of a novel composite scaffold comprising hyaluronic acid, divinyl sulfone, and alginate for cartilage engineering.

Methodology - Hyaluronic acid (HA) solutions were incorporated with sodium alginate and later crosslinked with divinyl sulfone (DVS). The resulting HA, alginate, and DVS hydrogel was thoroughly characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy- Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX), and in vitro cytotoxicity assays.

Results and Conclusion - This composite scaffold is tailored to provide an environment conducive to the growth and differentiation of chondrocytes or stem cells, ultimately leading to the regeneration of healthy cartilage.