Modified Poly(Lactic Acid) and Poly(Lactic Acid)/ <scp>ZnO</scp> Nanocomposite Foams as Potential Scaffolds for Alveolar Bone Tissue Engineering

ABSTRACT The application of polylactide materials for alveolar bone regeneration in bone tissue engineering is still a challenge in dentistry. In this paper, poly(lactic acid) PLA and PLA/ZnO composite foams were prepared by thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) method and modified in alkaline and chitosan solutions. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of modifications and the introduction of new functionalities on the morphology, porosity, wettability, as well as the thermal and mechanical properties of the investigated foams. The main focus was given to the degradation behavior of the foams in simulated saliva fluid (SSF), their biocompatibility with pre‐osteoblast cells (MC3T3‐E1), and their cytotoxicity. Highly porous (86%–97%) foams were created, with interconnected pores with dimensions between 10 and 85 μm, depending on the content and the modification procedure. Alkaline and chitosan modifications led to increased wettability, fluid absorption capacity, and degradation in SSF. The modifications performed were also beneficial for cell growth and development, showing good biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity. Based on their behavior, the modified PLA and PLA/ZnO nanocomposite foams can be considered as potential scaffolds for oral bone regeneration.