Dexamethasone-loaded PLGA Microspheres in Calcium Phosphate Cements for Bone Regeneration: Physicochemical Characterization

Objectives Bone regeneration is one of the most challenging issues in medicine, for which researchers have been seeking new practical strategies. Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) are proper candidates for bone scaffolds due to their high biocompatibility, self-setting features, and similar mineral content to the bone. Methods The present study aimed to fabricate composite CPC/ dexamethasone-loaded PLGA microsphere scaffolds, which significantly affected tissue remodeling, and to determine their potential for bone regeneration purposes. The SEM images were used to study the microstructure of the fabricated scaffolds and to investigate the distribution of PLGA in CPC. Moreover, FTIR analysis was performed to determine the chemical components of the fabricated scaffold and to approve the presence of dexamethasone and PLGA in the composite scaffolds. Next, ultraviolet spectroscopy was used to determine the amount of dexamethasone released over time. Results The FTIR results confirmed the presence of dexamethasone in the scaffold. Moreover, the cement/dexamethasone-loaded PLGA scaffold had a lower drug release compared to pure PLGA. Besides, a higher level of PLGA loading led to an increase in the drug release rate. Conclusion According to the results, different weight percentages of dexamethasone-loaded PLGA microspheres incorporated into CPC showed differences in the release time.