Immobilization of gelatin on the oxygen plasma-modified surface of polycaprolactone scaffolds with tunable pore structure for skin tissue engineering

Abstract

In this study, polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds were fabricated via the freeze-casting method. Moreover, the surface of prepared constructs was modified using an oxygen plasma treatment technique for grafting the gelatin in order to improve physicochemical and biological properties. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) micrographs demonstrated interconnect and unidirectional pore channels. At the same time, the modification procedure showed slight effects on the lamellar microstructure of pores. Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy determined chemical characterization, which evaluates the effect of the surface treatment on the chemical structure of scaffolds. The wettability of the constructs was investigated by a water drop contact angle and swelling ratio tests. The results illustrated an increment in hydrophilicity after oxygen plasma modification, while the immobilization of gelatin enhanced more the potential of interaction with water molecules. Moreover, the increase in the biodegradation ratio was observed after modification. The in-vitro performance of constructs before and after gelatin immobilization was investigated bt the cell culture assay. Accordingly, modified scaffolds with gelatin support cell attachment and filopodia formation compared with the PCL ones. Besides, the biocompatibility of polymeric matrixes was proved by MTT assay. The results suggest that gelatin grafting on oxygen plasma modified PCL scaffold can be useful in wound healing.