Aqueous –Based Polycaprolactone Matrix Synthesis for Use in Tissue Regeneration

The objective of this study was to analyze biomechanical properties of PCL matrices of different molecular weight ratios generated in aqueous media. 10% (w/v) PCL was dissolved in glacial acetic acid. Films and tubular scaffolds were made by injecting PCL solution into a water bath and allowing the PCL to spontaneously precipitate. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed differences in the surface texture between matrices of different ratios. Tensile properties of films measured in wet conditions at 37C showed that the tensile strength decreased with increased presence of low MW PCL. Scaffolds formed from 0:1:0 (80:42.5:10) kD by MWn blend solution had the greatest stiffness. Compliance (percent change in volume over the change in pressure) testing over a pressure range of 0-200 mmHg at room temperature of tubular scaffolds showed that decreased MW increased the compliance of the vessels. In vitro cell cultures performed using mouse embryonic fibroblasts for four days showed that the matrices are not toxic and support cell growth as measured through Resazurin assay. Cytoskeletal actin staining showed cell adhesion and spreading on all matrices. In summary, PCL scaffolds can be generated in aqueous media and properties can be tuned by varying the MW of the polymer.