Copper / cobalt doped strontium-bioactive glasses for bone tissue engineering applications

In this study, we synthesized and characterized the sol-gel derived strontium BGs (SrBG) based on the 58 S glass in which copper (Cu) (Cu-SrBGs) or cobalt (Co) (Co-SrBGs) ions were separately substituted with calcium (Ca). The phase composition and morphology of the synthesized BGs were assessed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analyses, respectively. The in vitro bioactivity of the glasses was evaluated over 14 days in simulated body fluid (SBF). The in vitro cellular assessments confirmed the cytocompatibility and osteogenic potential of the BGs. The amorphous phase (>92%) of the BGs was quantified before immersion in SBF. Hydroxyapatite (HAp)/calcium carbonate polymorph phases were detected on all BG surfaces after immersion in SBF. The Co-SrBGs exhibited higher compatibility and could promote bone nodule formation as compared with the other groups. In conclusion, Cu-/Co-SrBGs may be considered suitable candidates for in vivo bone tissue engineering.