Osteoblast cell viability over ultra-long tricalcium phosphate nanocrystal-based methacrylate chitosan composite for bone regeneration

Abstract Bioceramic morphology plays a crucial role in bone repair and regeneration. It is extensively utilized in bone scaffold synthesis due to its better biological system activity and biocompatibility. Here, ultra-long tricalcium phosphate (UTCP) was synthesized with the assistance of the ultrasonication method. The UTCP was modified as a scaffold by the reinforcement of a methacrylate chitosan (MAC) polymer. The functionality of UTCP, UTCP/MAC, and methotrexate (MTX)-loaded composites was characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The crystalline natures are investigated by x-ray diffraction, and the results show the UTCP crystalline phase is not altered after the reinforcement of the MAC polymer and loading of MTX drugs. The morphological analyses were observed through electron microscopic analysis, and polymer-coated rod structures were observed. The UTCP/MAC composite mechanical stress was increased from 1813 Pa of UTCP to 4272 Pa. MTX loading and release at 79.0% within 3 h and 76.15% at 20 h, respectively, were achieved. The UTCP/MAC and UTCP/MAC/MTX’s osteoblast-like (MG-63) cell viability was investigated, and the MTX-loaded UTCP/MAC composite exhibits good viability behavior up to 96.0% in 14 d. The results confirm the higher compatibility of the composite and profitable cell growth. It may be suitable for bone implantation preparation, and it helps in faster regeneration of bone tissue after in vivo and clinical evaluation.