Abstract: A meniscus is a piece of cartilage found where two bones meet. This joint space distributes loads to protect the articular cartilage of the knee joint from too much stress. Injuries to these regions increase the risk for knee osteoarthritis, can disrupt regular function, and do not heal. The goal of meniscus tissue engineering is to use regenerated tissue in order to restore the normal function of the meniscus. The main purpose of this study is to design 3D scaffolds that can maintain the shape and structural components of the meniscus to provide support for cell-based meniscus regeneration. The meniscus scaffolds were produced layer by layer inspired by the collagen fibre bundles found in the original tissue. The scaffolds were made to have 100 percent interconnectivity between pores and 61 percent porosity. The researchers are optimistic that the scaffolds created in this study will have a future application in meniscus tissue engineering. Introduction: …show more content…
Even-numbered layers had a template of concentric rings, whereas odd-numbered layers had a grid of fibres using stacked discs as a template. To complete the model, the even and odd numbered slices were placed together. This structure was a close replica of the native tissue found in the meniscus based on their similarity in shape. To discover the right architecture, the researchers had to utilize PCL sheets. Polycaprolactone is an industrial polymer that has a very low melting point, and thus can be used for model making and prototyping. Polycaprolactone was selected for this study as it has been used previously for 3D printing meniscus scaffolds. It is inexpensive and works well with mould related materials. It can be manufactured at high quantities and is very durable and long lasting. It has been used for a large variety of health-related applications due to it being approved by the Food and Drug Administration