Design and Characterisation of a Multi-Layered Collagen-Based Scaffold for Osteochondral Defect Repair

Introduction Articular cartilage is a highly specialised tissue which is organised into distinct layers that vary in both structure and composition according to distance from the surface. Cartilage has a poor ability to regenerate itself and as a result, superficial damage almost inevitably leads to the development of osteoarthritis (OA). Recently, the potential of osteochondral tissue engineering to promote defect healing has been recognised, although the ideal tissue engineered solution has yet to be realised [1]. The aim of this study was to develop a scaffold which closely matches the osteochondral defect site in terms of both morphology and composition and to investigate its potential to regenerate osteochondral tissue.