In vitro evaluation of osteoconductive starch based scaffolds under dynamic conditions

The purpose of this research work is the in vitro evaluation of the osteogenic potential of fiber meshes scaffolds based on a blend of corn starch with poly-caprolactone with Si-OH groups using a flow perfusion bioreactor. Scaffolds based on a blend of corn starch with poly-caprolactone with Si-OH groups were seeded with human adipose stem cells and cultured in basal or osteogenic medium, under static and dynamic conditions for 7, 14 and 21 days. Starch with poly-caprolactone scaffolds were analysed in the same conditions and used as controls. The DNA quantification assay showed a high proliferation rate of human adipose stem cells cultured on scaffolds of of corn starch with poly-caprolactone with Si-OH groups in osteogenic medium under dynamic conditions. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy images showed that cells penetrated into the pores of the scaffold and demonstrated the existence of some mineralization nodules with significant Calcium and Phosphorous levels as quantified by energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis. Osteogenic differentiation of human adipose stem cells was also confirmed by positive Alizarin Red staining in cell cultured scaffolds of corn starch with poly-caprolactone with Si-OH groups and by relevant ALP activity.