Enhancing osteogenesis using 3D-printed porous tantalum scaffolds: A biomechanical, in vivo, and in vitro study

Complex bone defects continue to pose significant challenges in the field of orthopedics, where restoring structural integrity and promoting osteointegration are essential for successful repair outcomes. Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers a robust approach for fabricating patient-specific scaffolds with precise architectural and functional control. In this study, we designed and fabricated porous scaffolds composed of tantalum and titanium alloys, both with identical porosity, utilizing 3D printing technology. We systematically compared their mechanical properties, in vitro osteogenic potential, and in vivo bone integration within a defect model. The porous tantalum (PTa) scaffolds demonstrated exceptional biocompatibility, enhanced cell adhesion, and significantly promoted the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, as well as extracellular matrix mineralization. In vivo, the PTa scaffolds not only expedited bone repair but also improved osteoconductive ingrowth compared to their titanium counterparts. Multi-omics analyses further elucidated potential biological mechanisms underlying the superior performance of PTa. These findings underscore the potential of 3D-printed PTa as a promising scaffold material for the clinical repair of bone defects.