EFFICACY OF 3D-PRINTED SCAFFOLDS FOR CARTILAGE REGENERATION IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) remains a leading cause of disability worldwide due to the poor regenerative capacity of articular cartilage and the limited efficacy of current treatments. This study investigated the regenerative potential of 3D-printed scaffolds fabricated from various biomaterials—PLA, PCL, PEGDA, and a composite blend—to support chondrocyte viability, extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, and modulation of inflammation and senescence. Composite scaffolds demonstrated the highest chondrocyte viability (88%) and significantly enhanced the expression of chondrogenic markers (COL2A1, ACAN, SOX9), indicating robust ECM production. Inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and senescence-associated factors (MMP13, IL-6) were notably lower in composite scaffold groups compared to other materials, suggesting a favorable anti-inflammatory and anti-senescent profile. Furthermore, composite scaffolds exhibited superior mechanical properties (compressive strength of 6.1 MPa, elastic modulus of 170 MPa), highest porosity (80%), optimal pore size (350 μm), and the most effective retention of TGF-β3 growth factor (85%). These characteristics contributed to enhanced cellular activity and matrix deposition, supporting the hypothesis that scaffold architecture and biofunctionality are pivotal in cartilage regeneration. A positive correlation was also observed between scaffold porosity and chondrocyte viability, underscoring the importance of tailored structural design. The study provides compelling evidence that composite 3D-printed scaffolds offer a superior platform for cartilage repair, combining structural support, biological signaling, and tissue integration. These findings establish a strong foundation for the clinical translation of advanced scaffold-based therapies in the treatment of OA, moving closer to personalized, regenerative orthopedic solutions.