Mechanical and Biocompatibility Studies of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Gelatine/Gold Nanoparticle Scaffold for Bone Tissue Regeneration

Introduction: Bone grafting, a common approach in orthopedic and dental surgeries, often involves the use of autologous or allogenic grafts. However, these traditional methods are associated with several drawbacks, including limited bioactivity, donor site morbidity, and the risk of immune rejection. These limitations underscore the need for alternative strategies to enhance bone repair and regeneration. In this context, biomaterial scaffolds offer a promising solution. This study focuses on the development of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/ gelatin- based scaffold reinforced with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), aiming to address existing limitations and improve the efficacy of bone tissue engineering. Methods: The PVA/Gelatin/AuNPs (PGG) scaffolds were fabricated using a freeze-drying technique to achieve a porous structure favorable for cell infiltration. The successful incorporation of AuNPs into the scaffold matrix was characterized by UV-Vis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). In vitro biological assessments included the MTT assay for cytotoxicity and cell viability using MG-63 osteoblast-like cells, and antimicrobial testing to evaluate antibacterial efficacy. Results: The fabricated PGG scaffolds displayed a well-defined porous architecture with successful integration of AuNPs, as confirmed by spectroscopic and microscopic analyses. FTIR and XRD results indicated stable interactions between scaffold components. FESEM imaging showed uniform pore distribution and effective dispersion of AuNPs. MTT assays demonstrated high cell viability and biocompatibility with MG-63 cells, while antimicrobial tests revealed enhanced bacterial resistance due to the presence of AuNPs. Discussion: The results suggest that the inclusion of AuNPs not only improved the antimicrobial activity of the scaffolds but also maintained excellent biocompatibility. The porous structure supported cellular attachment and proliferation, essential for tissue regeneration. Compared to traditional scaffolds lacking antimicrobial functionality, the PGG scaffold exhibits superior multifunctional performance, combining structural support, biological activity, and resistance to infection. Conclusion: The developed PVA/Gelatin/AuNPs scaffold demonstrates promising potential for bone tissue engineering applications. Its favorable properties, such as enhanced bioactivity, biocompatibility, and antibacterial efficacy, address key limitations of current grafting techniques, making it a strong candidate for future clinical translation.