1. Introduction

Recent advancements in tissue engineering highlight the potential for 3D scaffold functionalization using biomolecules to induce specific actions within the material's microenvironment. Vitamin D3, a key biomolecule for bone tissue regeneration, plays a crucial role in modulating calcium and phosphorus absorption, supporting the functions of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Insufficient levels of vitamin D3 can lead to the development of thin and brittle bones, while its anti-inflammatory properties and immune system modulation further emphasize its significance.

This study aimed to obtain 3D scaffolds functionalized with vitamin D3 based on sol-gel Cerium (Ce) doped mesoporous bioactive glasses (MBGs) and Spongia agaricina (SA), a natural marine sponge.

The research assessed the functionalized scaffold capabilities for in vitro osteogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells and their genotoxicity towards osteoblast cells.

1. Methods

The template replica technique was used for 3D scaffold preparation based on Ce-doped MBGs in the 70SiO₂-(26-y) CaO-4P₂O₅-yCeO₂ system (y denotes 0, 1, and 3 moles) and SA as a sacrificial template. The green scaffolds were thermally treated in two stages up to the final temperature of 1200 °C.

The obtained scaffolds were analyzed by Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). The effect of vitamin D3 functionalization on biological properties was also investigated by in vitro assays.

1. Results

Analysis using Micro-CT unveiled that all scaffolds displayed an interconnected porous structure, with pore diameters predominantly falling within the range of 143.5 to 213.5 μm, which can promote effective bone ingrowth. Vitamin D3 functionalization of the scaffolds promoted bioactivity and osteogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells, leading to increased secretion of calcium and osteocalcin.

1. Conclusions

The results showed that functionalized 3D scaffolds are safe, do not damage the DNA cells, and promote in vitro osteoinduction.