The Effects of Crosslinking on the Rheology and Cellular Behavior of Polymer-Based 3D-Multilayered Scaffolds for Restoring Articular Cartilage

Polymer-based tri-layered (bone, intermediate and top layers) scaffolds used for the restoration of articular cartilage were prepared and characterized in this study to emulate the concentration gradient of cartilage. The scaffolds were physically or chemically crosslinked. In order to obtain adequate scaffolds for the intended application, the impact of the type of calcium phosphate used in the bone layer, the polymer used in the intermediate layer and the interlayer crosslinking process were analyzed. The correlation among SEM micrographs, physical-chemical characterization, swelling behavior, rheological measurements and cell studies were examined. Storage moduli at 1 Hz were 0.3–1.7 kPa for physically crosslinked scaffolds, and 4–5 kPa (EDC/NHS system) and 15–20 kPa (glutaraldehyde) for chemically crosslinked scaffolds. Intrinsic viscoelasticity and poroelasticity were considered in discussing the physical mechanism dominating in different time/frequency scales. Cell evaluation showed that all samples are available as alternatives to repair and/or substitute cartilage in articular osteoarthritis.