Surface-engineered 3D printed scaffolds with tailored nano topography: In vitro degradation and in vivo studies

The successful clinical application of tissue engineering scaffolds depends on their potential to promote cell proliferation and degrade gradually with the regeneration of tissue. Although Polycaprolactone (PCL) is known for its printability and biocompatibility, it has reduced bioactivity and impeded degenerative outcomes. To address this gap, 3D-printed PCL scaffolds were surface-engineered with plasma treatment and decorated with gold nanoparticles to modulate inflammation and tissue regeneration. This work presents an innovative combination approach to alter the surfaces of the scaffold at the nanoscale to better integrate with the host tissue. The capped gold nanoparticles were characterised using transmission electron microscopy and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The degradation behaviour of the surface functionalised scaffolds was evaluated in vitro for 30 days, whereas pre-clinical in vivo studies on Sprague Dawley rats assessed vascular response and biocompatibility. The gold nanoparticle functionalised scaffolds exhibited reduced inflammation and promoted neovascularisation compared to uncoated PCL scaffolds. These findings establish that PCL scaffolds with tailored nano-topographies can meaningfully enhance biological performance, presenting a promising route for cutting-edge regenerative treatments.