Fabrication and in vitro evaluation of a sponge-like bioactive-glass/gelatin composite scaffold for bone tissue engineering

► Optimised composition & fabrication produced sponge-like porosity (pore size ~ 170 μm). ► Maximum aqueous stability via dehydrothermal treatment at 145 °C, for 48 h ► Biocompatibility & osteogenic potential confirmed via successful HDPSC cultures. ► Minimal toxicity exhibited in optimally crosslinked samples (10 mM genipin, 24 h). ► Osteogenic differentiation & ECM deposition also confirmed by alkaline phosphatase.