Multifunctional biopolymer-hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds for antibiotic delivery in osteomyelitis treatment and bone regeneration

High bone-localized concentrations of antimicrobial agents are necessary for the long-term effective treatment of chronic osteomyelitis, particularly in cases of severe infection and bone loss. This study addressed infection control and bone regeneration simultaneously using hydroxyapatite and natural biopolymers. Moxifloxacin hydrochloride was delivered via composite scaffolds produced from polyvinyl alcohol/gelatin and hydroxyapatite with potential applications in osteomyelitis treatment and bone tissue engineering. The composite scaffolds exhibited a well-defined porous architecture, characterised by macropores (≥100 µm) and micropores (≤20 µm), facilitating cellular infiltration and drug loading. Biomineralization and cell culture assays were used to evaluate the scaffold’s bioactivity and biocompatibility. Analyses of mineralized scaffolds using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed HA nucleation on the scaffold’s surface after immersion in simulated bodily fluid for varied time points. Protein adsorption and haemolysis tests were conducted to confirm the blood compatibility of scaffolds. Cell culture studies using human mesenchymal stem cells indicated non-cytotoxicity and robust cell adhesion. These findings suggest the potential suitability of these scaffolds for future clinical applications in the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis and bone regeneration.