Conclusions
An original method for preparing scaffolds for cell cultures was developed. It involves modification of the wet phase inversion method by the use of gelatin nano-non-wovens as a novel, non-classic pore precursor. The scaffolds obtained by this method have a unique characteristic. Their upper surface is highly porous, which allows for a ”smooth penetration” of cells into the structure of a scaffold. The cross-section is characterized by the presence of numerous, large, interconnected pores. The bottom surface contains a few small pores which prevent the cells from ”falling out” from the structure of the scaffolds. In comparison to pores of scaffolds obtained with conventional pore precursors (polymers added to the scaffold-forming solution), pores are significantly larger (usually 50–80 µm instead of 10–20 µm) and are evenly distributed.
The proper growth of chondrocytes requires three-dimensional space, which does not limit the shape they adopt during their growth. Moreover, the transfer of cultured cells into properly developed tissue requires interconnected pores since it allows for necessary intercellular communication. Due to their shape size and the level of interconnection of pores, scaffolds prepared from PLLA and PCLA, meet all these requirements. The most favourable morphology is attributed to scaffolds prepared from a gelatin nano-non-woven, PVP, and Pluronic®. In addition to the characters mentioned above, they contain perforations (addition of PVP) and inner walls of pores are divided into segments (due to addition of Pluronic®), which facilitates the migration of particles within the pores.
Cytotoxicity data obtained for the prepared scaffolds prove that none of the examined polymers is toxic concerning the Jurkat cells. Since the cells of that line are very susceptible to toxic substances, it has allowed us to conclude that these scaffolds may also be used for culturing other types of cells.
It was found that the original scaffolds developed did not show a cytotoxic effect on mouse fibroblasts since the number of viable cells after 24 hours of culture in a non-contact test is higher than 70% of their first number. Cells show an upward trend over time, and their morphology is normal after 5 days of culture. It is shown that the scaffolds tested can be used for other cell cultures.