Oxygen Generating Scaffolds for Tissue Regeneration

One of the significant challenges facing tissue engineering is the inadequate diffusion of oxygen to transplanted cells. In this study we investigated whether the diffusion problem could be solved by incorporating oxygen producing materials to generate endogenous oxygen. We fabricated a scaffold system that would provide sustained release of oxygen to cells and tissues for prolonged survival in vivo. Methods Oxygen producing films were prepared by combining PLGA with sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate (SPO). To assess oxygen release, films were placed in water and the rate of oxygen release was measured. To demonstrate the efficacy in vivo, the films (20 x 10 mm) were implanted in an ischemic skin flap model (mouse), and graft necrosis was measured by skin discoloration and digital image analysis. Results Successful incorporation of SPO within the polymers was confirmed by the release of oxygen gas bubbles when placed in water. The analysis of graft necrosis shows a significant benefit for the SPO group in the early time points up to 3 days. Conclusions We demonstrate that oxygen diffusion limitation can be solved by incorporating oxygen producing compounds into scaffolds. The polymers containing SPO are able to prevent necrosis and prolong tissue viability in vivo. This novel system may lead to an accelerated clinical translation of tissue engineering technology.