Dense and Fibrous Membranes of Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/Epoxidized Poly(isoprene): Chemical and Biological Evaluation

The manufacture of polymer blends is a widely used process for obtaining new engineering materials. The method by which a polymer blend is prepared and processed will directly affect some of its characteristics, including mechanical and biological properties. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and epoxidized poly(isoprene), extracted from natural rubber latex, were blended and tested for tissue engineering applications. Dense and fibrous membranes were prepared by casting and electrospinning, respectively. Membranes prepared by casting method showed a more hydrophilic character than those prepared by electrospinning. Results of in vitro degradation showed that of the three aqueous media evaluated, the greatest mass loss occurred in Ringer’s solution; approximately 11 % of the total blend mass was degraded in 30 days. After immersion in Simulated Body Fluid, both membranes showed bioactive behavior and qualitative evidence of deposition on their surfaces with morphology consistent with calcium phosphates. Greater adherence and proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells was observed in the fibrous membranes, indicating viability for possible application in tissue engineering.