Hierarchical surface engineering of 3D-printed PEEK scaffolds via sulfonation-PDA-GelMA coating as a material platform for tarsal plate reconstruction and future meibomian gland research

Eyelid defects severely affect quality of life, and traditional surgical implants fail to restore meibomian gland function due to uncontrollable cell distribution. To address this, we developed a 3D-printed biomimetic scaffold using polyetheretherketone (PEEK) with a three-level surface modification: sulfonation, polydopamine (PDA), and gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) coating, aiming to provide a material platform for tarsal plate repair and to support future research toward meibomian gland reconstruction. Scaffold surface properties were assessed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, water contact angle, and protein adsorption tests. Sulfonation and PDA created a porous surface, while GelMA introduced interlocking structures that enhanced stability in moist conditions and improved hydrophilicity and protein adsorption. Biocompatibility was evaluated in vitro with NIH3T3 fibroblasts and in vivo via subcutaneous implantation in rats. The scaffolds promoted consistent cell proliferation, reduced inflammation, and enhanced collagen deposition, suggesting a favorable early host response and providing a structural basis for tissue integration. The GelMA-PSPEEK scaffold establishes a cell-friendly microenvironment for precise cell distribution, a key prerequisite for future studies aimed at meibomian gland reconstruction. These results demonstrate that composite surface-modified 3D-printed non-degradable scaffolds may be applicable as a material platform for tarsal plate repair and for future research toward meibomian gland reconstruction.