Physicochemical characterization and biological effect of 3D-nanofibrous alumina scaffolds produced by solution blow spinning

The objective of this study was to conduct a physicochemical characterization and in vivo assessment of the bioactivity of amorphous 3D-nanofibrous alumina scaffolds, manufactured using the Solution Blow Spinning (SBS) technique, for the purpose of bone regeneration. The nanofibers utilized in this research were derived from a solution containing aluminum nitrate, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), ethanol, and distilled water, and were subsequently spun using SBS. The resulting scaffolds underwent calcination at 500 °C. Physicochemical analysis of the scaffolds was carried out, and their biological effects were evaluated in the femurs of Wistar rats. The scaffolds exhibited an amorphous structure consisting of nanofibers with an average diameter of 290 nm. They presented a cotton-wool-like 3D configuration after calcination process. Histomorphometric analysis revealed a significantly higher degree of bone neoformation within the alumina groups compared to the control group during both experimental periods (p < 0.05). Additionally, the percentage of remaining alumina graft particles was consistent at 14 and 28 days. In conclusion, the assessed 3D nanofibrous alumina scaffolds facilitated bone deposition and supported the filling of bone defects with new bone tissue.