Manufacture and extraction of PLLA films with incorporated metal ions

For the in vitro examination of the effects on cells and tissues of metal ions derived from implants by wear and corrosion, a system is needed to release metal ions in a controlled and sustained manner. As small concentrations may have an impact on biological systems, a corresponding slow release over a defined period of time is necessary. Here, a manufacturing method of polymeric Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) films with incorporated cobalt ions via dip coating is reported. The establishment of two analytical methods for the detection and quantification of cobalt ions is shown. High performance liquid chromatography enables cobalt quantification over a concentration range of 0.33 μg/mL up to 33 μg/mL in sample solutions. Extraction and detection of cobalt ions from solvent cast PLLA-cobalt-films shows the feasibility of the manufacturing method. Initial biocompatibility tests with manufactured PLLA-cobaltfilms showed no effects on adipose derived primary mesenchymal stem cells (adMSCs).