Example of pore size and wall thickness analysis of gelatin scaffolds
X-ray Computed Tomography Imaging of 3D printed Gelatin Scaffolds loaded with Quaternary Ammonium Compounds for dental applications.
Regenerative Endodontic Procedures (REPs) are dental treatments for immature permanent teeth that aim to restore tooth health and function. Recent research has shown that up to 79% of failed REPS are due to persistent bacterial infections. The use of antimicrobial materials that can reduce bacterial burden, whilst maintaining regenerative function, would reduce the failure rate of these procedures. The aim of this research is to develop 3D printed scaffolds loaded with antimicrobial compounds that can ensure sufficient antibacterial efficacy and create a favourable environment for cells to regenerate the lost or damaged structures of the tooth. The 3D structure and porosity of the scaffold has an important role in drug release, facilitating cell infiltration, proliferation, and guiding scaffold degradation and tissue remodelling processes. Micro-CT imaging has been key to the development of this work as it has produced essential information in relation to the porosity and interconnectivity of quaternary ammonium compound loaded 3D printed gelatin scaffolds.
The video and images shown here were created with Fiji and Drishti from Zeiss Xradia Versa data.
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