Promising Alginate-Gelatin Scaffolds Containing 5-Fluorouracil and Reinforced with Zinc-Modified Hydroxyapatite: Cell Attachment and One-Year Stability Study

Abstract

Purpose The current study evaluated the cell attachment capability and long-term stability of 5 - fluorouracil (5-FU) loaded alginate-gelatin scaffolds reinforced with zinc-doped hydroxyapatite (Zn-HA). Methods Zn-HA (2% and 6% Zn) was prepared and evaluated for the crystalline nature, chemical structure, and microstructure of hydroxyapatite (HA). Blank and 5-FU loaded alginate-gelatin-Zn-HA scaffolds were prepared and evaluated in terms of surface area, pore size, pore volume, and morphology using the gas adsorption technique and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Cell attachment studies were also carried out on normal human cell line. The scaffolds were stored for one year at room temperature and evaluated for any changes in their physico-chemical properties as well as 5-FU release profile. Results The results showed that increasing zinc content decreased HA particle size. The blank scaffolds showed higher surface area, pore volume values, and a less porous structure compared to the drug-loaded ones. The pore size increased after scaffolds soaking in cell-line medium due to the hydrogel-forming materials' biodegradability and drug release. Cell growth on the presoaked drug-loaded scaffolds was improved compared to blank scaffold. XRD, FTIR and 5-FU release profile indicated that the stored scaffolds did not show any physical or chemical changes. Conclusion The prepared scaffolds showed promising results regarding cell attachment capability and long-term stability.

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