Distribution of grafted β-cyclodextrin in porous particles for bone tissue engineering

The spatial distribution of β-cyclodextrin grafted to a range of porous materials was investigated. (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane was used to facilitate the covalent grafting of β-cyclodextrin. The spatial distribution was analysed by combining results from confocal laser scanning microscopy and electron microscopy fitted with a focused ion beam and an energy-dispersive X-ray detector. Three materials were analysed: Two types of silica gel and one calcium phosphate. The results show that by combining the two methods it is possible to deduce the spatial distribution of the grafted cyclodextrins. Silica gel with small pores could be grafted to a depth of approximately 10 μm, whereas calcium phosphate with larger pores indicated a penetration depth larger than 30 μm.

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► Distribution of β-cyclodextrin grafted to porous particles were investigated.
► Two methods were used: CLSM and SEM/FIB/EDS.
► The two methods combined are a powerful tool to deduce the spatial distribution.
► Large variations in spatial distribution of β-cyclodextrin was found.