Evaluation of Tissue Behavior on Three-dimensional Collagen Scaffold Coated with Carbon Nanotubes and β-tricalcium Phosphate Nanoparticles

Abstract

We generated a three-dimensional collagen scaffold coated with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) nanoparticles and histologically evaluated tissue behavior toward the nanomodified scaffold after subcutaneous tissue implantation in rat. Scanning electron microscopy images of the nanomodified scaffold showed that the collagen surface was enveloped by a meshwork of CNTs and dispersed β-TCP nanoparticles. Histological observations indicated that application of CNTs and β-TCP nanoparticles increased cell and blood vessel penetration into the collagen scaffold. CNTs consistently stimulated giant cell aggregation. In addition, CNTs and β-TCP application to the scaffold significantly promoted the DNA content of infiltrating cells and scaffold biodegradation compared to the untreated scaffold. The nanomodified scaffold coated with CNTs and β-TCP nanoparticles would be beneficial for tissue engineering therapy.