Different real-time degradation scenarios of functionalized poly(ε-caprolactone) for biomedical applications

Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are a much-commented injury as it can end the season or even career of professional athletes. However, the recovery of a patient from the general population is no less painful during the long period required by current treatments. Artificial ligaments could improve this healing, yet, orthopedic surgeons are still cautious about permanent ACL implants. Therefore, combining biodegradation and bioactivity could be a key feature for the popularization of these devices. This study aim at evaluating the real-time degradation of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) grafted with the bioactive polymer sodium polystyrene sulfonate in different scenarios. PCL physical–chemical properties were evaluated before and after degradation. In addition, in vitro experiments were realized to confirm the long term influence of the grafting on cell response. Altogether, we were able to show different degradations scenarios, enabling to study the impact of degradation environment on degradation mode and rate of functionalized PCL.