Development of Biomimetic Gelatin-Hydroxyapatite Composites Containing Doxycycline with Osteogenic Potential

Worldwide, bone illnesses and disorders are on the rise. Artificial bone substitutes may replace autogenous bone transplants. Due to its cytocompatibility, nontoxic breakdown, infinite supply, and disease resistance, biopolymers are becoming more attractive in biomedical applications. Most graft materials used in composites lack the antibacterial properties necessary for matrix biocompatibility. This study aims to develop two hybrid polymeric composites incorporating doxycycline to enhance cell compatibility and antibacterial activity, using gelatin-Hydroxyapatite-gelatin (HA-gel) cross-linked with 1% w/v (1-ethyl-3-(3-(dimethylamino)propyl)) carbodiimide (EDC) and 0.3, 0.7, and 1.2% doxycycline. The gelatin-hydroxyapatite scaffold with 1% EDC cross-linker and 0.3% doxycycline (1.1) demonstrated reduced cytotoxicity in L929 fibroblasts and MC3T3 preosteoblastic cells. At 21 days, scaffolds increased preosteoblastic cell (MC3T3) proliferation, cell adhesion, and ALP. The <i>in vitro</i> drug release profiles and steady enzymatic biodegradation are consistent with the bone regeneration time. Doxycycline-enhanced gelatin-HA composites have porosity, controlled breakdown, and swelling, making them biocompatible for bone tissue regeneration. Doxycycline increased preosteoblastic cell proliferation, offered antibacterial characteristics, and regulated breakdown to meet bone repair timelines. The composite improved cell adherence and regulated drug release, making it a viable tissue engineering and drug delivery medium.