Dual-growth-factor-releasing PCL scaffolds for chondrogenesis of adipose-tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Polycaprolactone/Pluronic F127 porous scaffolds are prepared using a modified melt-molding particulate-leaching method. The scaffolds are highly porous (about 90% porosity) and have opencellular pore structures. Growth factors (TGF-β2, BMP-7 or dual TGF-β2/BMP-7) can be easily immobilized on the pore surfaces of the PCL/F127 scaffolds via binding with heparin. The growthfactor- immobilized scaffolds can induce the chondrogenesis of ATMSCs seeded onto them. Using TGF-β2 and BMP-7 growth factors together leads to a better chondrogenic differentiation behavior than using single-growth-factor immobilized scaffolds.