Integrated 3D printing of topologically hierarchical mechanical hydrogel for accelerating osteochondral regeneration.

ABSTRACT: Osteochondral defects present a formidable clinical challenge due to the intricate structural and functional interdependence of cartilage and subchondral bone. Conventional scaffolds, characterized by single-scale, disconnected pores, inherently restrict cell-cell communication and nutrient diffusion, thereby impeding osteoblast-to-osteocyte transformation and matrix mineralization. Herein, a 3D-printed topologically hierarchical mechanical hydrogel (THMH) scaffold was developed featuring a biomimetic bilayer architecture that recapitulates the native osteochondral microenvironment. THMH integrates a nanoporous cartilage-mimetic layer and a macroporous osteogenic layer, interconnected via gradient pores to facilitate nutrient transport, vascularization, and cellular crosstalk. In vitro<

SUBMITTER: Zha XJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12547219 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature