The Fundamental Parameters Of Chitosan Affect Osteoblastic (MC3T3-E1) Phenotypes

Background: Chitosan, a versatile biopolymer, has good potential for utilization in periodontal tissue regeneration. However, the degree of deacetylation (DD) and the molecular weight (MW) of chitosan relating to biological properties have not been clearly elucidated. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the degree of deacetylation and the molecular weight of chitosan on osteoblastic (MC3T3-E1) phenotypes. Methods: The chitosan-collagen composite scaffolds were fabricated by freeze drying technique. Microstructure of scaffolds were examined using scanning electron microscope. Scanning electron images were analyzed using ImagePro® Plus software program to determine the pore size and area fraction of scaffolds. The studies on cell attachment, cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralized nodule formation of osteoblasts were determined according to the different degree of deacetylation and molecular weight of chitosan. Results: The results showed that the microstructure of scaffolds had porosity and pore size ranging from 0 to 50 microns. No statistically significant difference was found on cell attachment, but the chitosan-collagen composite scaffold with the low DD of chitosan had a significantly (p<0.05) higher proliferative effect and ALP activity than those composite scaffold with the high DD of chitosan, regardless of molecular weight. Mineralized nodule formation was not found on all tested scaffolds. Conclusion: The degree of deacetylation of chitosan is a crucial factor for biological properties so it should be considered in further applications for periodontal tissue regeneration.