Study on 3D-printed methacrylated hyaluronic acid/methacrylated carboxymethyl chitosan/curcumin composite scaffolds for jaw bone regeneration

This study investigates the use of composite scaffolds composed of methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HAMA), methacrylated carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCSMA), and curcumin (Cur) in bone tissue regeneration. The repair of oral and maxillofacial bone defects poses a significant clinical challenge, and the development of innovative scaffold materials to facilitate bone regeneration is crucial. The objective of this study was to fabricate a composite scaffold that exhibits favorable biocompatibility and appropriate porosity (76%–87%), and to systematically assess its impact on the proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation of osteoblasts (MC3T3 cells). The CMCSMA/HAMA/Cur composite scaffold was successfully synthesized through chemical processes and three-dimensional printing, followed by a thorough material characterization. In vitro cellular assays revealed that the CMCSMA/HAMA/Cur composite scaffold demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, with a hemolysis rate below 5%, and facilitated the sustained release of Cur, underscoring its potential for localized drug delivery. Furthermore, the scaffold notably enhanced cell proliferation and migration compared to the Control group and modulated the expression of key genes Vegfa, Tnc, Pdgfb in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, thereby suggesting its capacity to promote osteogenic differentiation. This study offers a novel approach and provides a theoretical framework for future advancements in bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with the anticipation of further clinical evaluation and application.