Surface modification of hydroxyapatite using heparin and its use in the formation of nanocomposite scaffolds

摘要

HAP has been successfully modified with APTES, which forms a silica network around the particles, though curing at 150 °C for 24 hours causes some oxidation of the APTES to occur. Heparin was attached successfully on this layer through covalent binding, indicative that this is a viable method for modification by heparan sulphate. HAP can be dispersed in PCL scaffold at high loadings and better dispersion can be achieved if sonication is carried out prior to vacuum-drying.