Design and characterization of 3D printed gradient scaffolds with spatial distribution of pore sizes

In bone repair, scaffold structural design is essential for optimizing mechanical performance and osteogenic potential. Gradient structural scaffolds are engineered to balance mechanical qualities and permeability which can improve the material transport capacity of scaffolds. This study designed and fabricated gradient structural scaffolds with spatially distributed pore size, and investigated their mechanical and fluid dynamics properties, coupled with in vitro osteogenic experiments to understand the impact of pore size distribution. The results indicated that, compared to traditional uniform pore scaffolds, gradient scaffolds exhibited a significant increase in mechanical strength, fluid permeability, and in vitro osteogenic activity. To sum up, the gradient scaffolds demonstrated better comprehensive performance and potential for use in the structural design of bone repair scaffolds, offering an important reference value for the three-dimensional structural design of scaffolds.