The development of novel strategies that aim to augment the regenerative potential of bone is critical for devising better treatment options for bone defects or injuries. Facilitation of bone repair and regeneration utilizing composite hydrogels that simulates bone matrix is emerging as a viable approach in bone tissue engineering. The present study aimed to develop nanohydroxyapatite-incorporated gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)/poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogel (GMPH hydrogel). A facile blending and photocrosslinking approach was employed to incorporate nanohydroxyapatite into the inter-crosslinked polymeric hydrogel network to obtain an ECM mimicking matrix for assisting bone tissue regeneration. Chemical characterization of GelMA and the GMPH hydrogel was carried out using FTIR and 1H NMR. Physical properties of GMPH, such as gelation, swelling and degradation ratios, and internal morphology, signified the suitability of GMPH hydrogel for tissue engineering. Cell viability assay demonstrated a healthy proliferation of MG63 osteoblast cells in GMPH hydrogel extracted growth medium, indicating the hydrogel's cytocompatibility and suitability for bone tissue engineering. Our study documented the fabrication of a novel GelMA/PEGDA-nanohydroxyapatite hydrogel that possesses ideal physicochemical and biological properties for bone tissue engineering.
Keywords: Bone tissue engineering; Composite biomaterial; Hydrogel; Photocrosslinking.