A recent study presented at the 102nd General Session of the IADR explored the use of icariin (ICA)-releasing 3D-printed scaffolds to promote cleft bone regeneration. Researchers from Columbia University designed polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds embedded with different concentrations of ICA (0.1-0.3%), followed by 3D-printing. These scaffolds were tested both in vitro and in vivo, using a rat cleft defect model.

The study found that 0.3% ICA/PCL scaffolds treated with NaOH showed the most promising bone formation results in vitro. RT-qPCR analysis confirmed increased gene expression related to bone formation, indicating the potential of these scaffolds for efficient bone regeneration.

In vivo, the ICA/PCL scaffolds were implanted in rat cleft defects via press-fitting. Results showed effective integration with host tissue, as well as recruitment and differentiation of stem cells, demonstrating the scaffold's potential for cleft bone repair after surgery.

The researchers continue to follow the long-term effects of these scaffolds on bone regeneration, focusing on cellular recruitment, tissue integration, and matrix turnover. These findings highlight the potential of 3D-printed ICA-releasing scaffolds for future use in regenerative dental surgery.

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