Double-Network Bilayer Hydrogel Loaded with Puerarin and Curcumin for Osteochondral Repair.

ABSTRACT: Osteochondral injuries, which could result in cartilage defects and damage to the subchondral bone, pose a significant challenge in the design of scaffolds for bone repair due to the different characteristics of bone and cartilage. In this study, we developed a double-network bilayer hydrogel scaffold composed of an upper layer and a lower layer reinforced with a ZnO nanoparticle. The double-network hydrogel consisted of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), oxidized sodium alginate (OSA), and poly-(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) networks. The upper and lower layers were, respectively, loaded with puerarin (Pue) and curcumin (Cur) to facilitate simultaneous repair of cartilage and bone. The scaffold exhibited better water absorption, mechanical properties (tensile strength: 0.8 MPa), self-healing capacity

SUBMITTER: Chen W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12461305 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature