Growth factor releasing core-shell polymeric scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.

Abstract

Tissue engineering is the use of a combination of cells, biomaterials and appropriate signals to repair or improve the functions of damaged tissues. Our group is exploiting various approaches to effectively encapsulate multiple growth factors in polymeric scaffolds for tissue engineering and wound healing applications. In this report, some of the exciting results from our most recent and ongoing projects are outlined with a focus on the use of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). CTGF is a secreted protein with major roles in angiogenesis, chondrogenesis, osteogenesis and tissue repair. CTGF can play a major role in tissue regeneration by enhancing cell proliferation and promoting cell migration. CTGF was incorporated to electrospun polymeric fibers to provide sustained release. Experimental results demonstrated the ability of scaffolds incorporated with CTGF to promote cell proliferation and cell migration. This study shows the application potential of the developed scaffolds in various tissue engineering applications.