New insights into the PLGA and PCL blending: physico-mechanical properties and cell response

We examined the effects of blending of biodegradable polymers PCL and PLGA on their surface properties, crystallinity, mechanical parameters and in vitro cell response. Blends were fabricated in the form of films with the solvent casting method by combining 25–75 vol% of PCL with PLGA. Due to differences in morphology and surface properties of the opposite film sites, we investigated either air exposed (AS) or glass exposed (GS) surfaces. PCL-PLGA films showed differences in contact angle values, roughness parameters, morphology, cell growth and ALP activity depending whether the AS or GS was investigated. PCL-PLGA blends displayed enhanced roughness (i.e. AS), hydrophilicity and improved tensile properties when compared to neat PCL. Increasing PLGA content resulted in increased tensile strength and Young's modulus values of blends. Furthermore, the GS of blends favored cell growth, whereas AS increased cellular ALP activity. Thus, PCL and PLGA blending provide controllable physico-chemical properties and cell response depending on AS versus GS surface and PCL/PLGA ratio. (paper)