Microstructural, mechanical, and histological evaluation of modified alginate-based scaffolds

Scaffolds are three‐dimensional structures used for tissue regeneration being the base in tissue engineering. These scaffolds are obtained from natural and/or synthetic polymers and they should satisfy some specific requirements such as biocompatibility, suitable mechanical, and microstructural properties to favor cellular adhesion and neovascularization. This work shows a preclinic study about the production of low and medium molecular weight alginate through the use of calcium salts (calcium glutamate). The results showed prove that better structures, distribution, and pore sizes as well as better mechanical properties correspond to medium molecular weight alginate and higher calcium salts concentration. This type of scaffold, after muscular cells cultivation, has been proved as an excellent material for muscle growth. The histopathological analysis shows a low inflammatory response, without a foreign body reaction, suitable neovascularization and good fibroblasts incorporation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 3107–3114, 2016.