Poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide)/hydroxyapatite core–shell nanospheres. Part 4: A change of the surface properties during degradation process and the corresponding in vitro cellular response

The surface properties of PLGA/HAp core–shell nanoparticles loaded with clindamycin obtained by an ultrasonic processing method and their changes under the simulated physiological conditions during the degradation process (when the morphology is changed starting from the nanospheres, over micrometer-sized plate-like films to a porous network) were investigated. The dynamic change of the surface properties of this material obtained in a water environment showed an increase of the surface area (up to 70 m2/g) and an improved wettability (estimated water contact angle was in the range between 40° and 60°) suggesting the possibility for its good interaction with cells. The in vitro tests are in a good correlation with this hypothesis, showing a high level of cytocompatibility of the material with the mouse L929 and human lung MRC-5 fibroblasts. The fibroblasts were able to achieve the contact with the material's surface and to attach onto it. The significance of HAp, as the bioceramic phase within the PLGA/HAp core–shell nanoparticles, may be brought into relationship with its role in improving the surface properties of PLGA/HAp obtained during the degradation process. These properties are closely related to the bioactivity and biocompatibility of this material, which are highly relevant for its biomedical application.

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► The degradation of PLGA/HAp core–shells results in dynamic changes of their surface properties.
► The obtained changes are the consequence of the presence of HAp in the composite.
► The material shows a high cytocompatibility with the MRC-5 and L929 fibroblasts.
► A good cellular response was confirmed using different cytotoxicity tests.