NaOH-treated PLGA scaffolds allow for greater articular chondrocyte functions

Previous studies have shown that NaOH-treated two-dimensional PLGA films enhanced chondrocyte functions. In this in vitro study, a three-dimensional PLGA scaffold was fabricated and treated with NaOH. Articular chondrocyte function was then examined. Results show, for the first time, greater cell numbers and enhanced subsequent cellular functions (such as select intracellular protein synthesis) on NaOH-treated scaffolds. Underlying material properties that may have enhanced chondrocyte functions include a more hydrophilic surface (due to hydrolytic degradation of PLGA by NaOH), increased surface area, altered porosity, and a greater degree of nanometer roughness. For these reasons, this study adds a novel tissue-engineering scaffold to the cartilage biomaterial community: NaOH-treated PLGA. Clearly, such surface and chemical modifications of PLGA may ultimately enhance the efficacy of tissue-engineering scaffolds for articular cartilage repair.