BPS2025 - 4D polycaprolactone-graphene oxide scaffolds predict cell and bacterial behavior by surface modification

The demand for multifunctional materials in medical settings highlights the need for specialized functionalities. A key challenge is biofouling, particularly due to contamination in surgical settings. Beyond preventing infections, it is crucial to ensure that scaffolds integrate to promote tissue regeneration. This study focuses on versatile material designed for medical applications, considering the various time-sensitive events following scaffold implantation. Specifically, we examine the incorporation of graphene oxide (GO) into polycaprolactone (PCL) to create a composite for 3D-printed scaffolds with controlled antibacterial and anti-adhesive properties over time. The resulting PCL-GO scaffold exhibits localized hydrophobic effects, reducing the attachment of biological entities, including a significant decrease in bacteriophage adhesion and a reduction in E. coli and S. aureus adhesion. Additionally, the ability to 3D print PCL-GO scaffolds in varying heights provides control over cell distribution and attachment, which is beneficial for applications such as microfluidics and wound healing. Over time, the scaffold's surface becomes more hydrophilic, enabling cell colonization. Moreover, the presence of GO allows for infrared light-based sterilization, effectively disrupting any bacteria that may adhere to the scaffold's surface. Overall, these findings demonstrate the potential of PCL-GO composites as adaptable materials for a wide range of medical applications. This project was founded by AIRC IG 2019—ID 23124 project and the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MIUR) “One Health Basic and Translational Research Actions addressing Unmet Needs on Emerging Infectious Diseases—INFACT”—“PNRR NextGenerationEU” project. We acknowledge financial support under the National recovery and resilience plan (NRRP), mission 4, component 2, investment 1.1, call for tender no. 104 published on 2.2.2022 by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), funded by the European Union - NextGenerationEU—project title WoundXene: chronic wound regeneration by MXenes-based 3D-printed patches - CUP B53D23008580006.