Electrospun PVA/CS/HA/BA nanofiber scaffolds with enhanced mechanical stability and antifungal activity for bone tissue engineering

In this study, we created multifunctional bone tissue engineering scaffolds that combine prophylactic antifungal action with structural support. We produced PVA/CS/HA/BA nanofiber matrices via a specifically designed electrospinning technique to stop early cross-linking. Through SEM, our examination of fiber shape revealed diameters ranging from 178 +/- 53 nm to 330 +/- 69 nm. We discovered that this variation was closely correlated with the Boric Acid (BA) level. Our EDS and FTIR studies further showed that HA and BA were effectively mixed, with a specific focus on the production of borate-ester linkages inside the network. Mechanical examination revealed that 0.25 wt.% BA maximizes the tensile strength at 9.15 MPa, thereby closely matching HA-reinforced standards, while HA incorporation improved thermal stability. Moreover, in vitro hFOB experiments showed sustained cytocompatibility at 0.25 wt.% BA. While 0.5 wt.% BA showed strong antifungal action against Candida albicans, it sadly harmed cell viability. The 0.25 wt.% BA concentration ultimately offers a better balance between mechanical integrity and antibacterial action, therefore presenting a potential method for scaffold generation for bone regeneration in immunocompromised patients.