Glutaraldehyde: Introducing Optimum Condition for Cross-linking the Chitosan/Gelatin Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering

Large bone defects caused by trauma or disease needs extra intervention. Gelatin/chitosan complex is one of the most valuable compositions for healing, but fast degradation in aqueous solution and low mechanical properties increase need cross-linking agent. The cross-linker concentration method had a significant effect on fabricated scaffolds. Here, three different methods Glutaraldehyde (GA), including addition to solution, vapor exposure, immersion, were studied in-vitro analyses find best GA method. Scanning electron microscopy showed homogeneous microstructures all samples. Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry revealed reactions Swelling ratio biodegradation was reduced increasing exposure time. Nonetheless, higher time improved properties, while it seems more than concentration. Accordingly, (1 wt%) cross-linked scaffold with suitable performance 39.3° contact angle, 1.45±0.05 MPa compressive strength, 22.31±1.3 (%) swelling ratio, 26.33±4.47 ratio. In-vitro experiments indicated cells spread over scaffolds 80 cell viability points. expression alkaline phosphatase (ALP) osteo-related genes (osteocalcin related transcription factor 2) during 14 days incubation high capacity support mineralization osto-differentiation. Therefore wt% ) introduced as candidate repair further studies.