Papers by Author: T. Ushida

Abstract: α-TCP/HAp functionally graded porous beads were prepared for use as a scaffold for bone regeneration. In this research, porous beads which have compositionally graded layer, from TCP of inner area to HAp of surface area, were fabricated. It is known that the dissolution rate of TCP is fast in compare with that of HAp in living body, thus the inner area would dissolve prior to the surface area. These beads to allow the penetration of cells and blood vessel into the inner area of beads following new bone regeneration. At present, conditions to fabricate the functionally graded porous beads have been established already, and experiments using cells [MC3T3-E1] are in progress.

Abstract: Porous beads of bioactive ceramics such as HAp, TCP are considered to be promising as excellent scaffolds for cultivating bone cells. To realize this type of beads which maintains the function of scaffold with sufficient strength up to growth of new bone, and is expected to absorbed completely after the growth, a-TCP/ HAp functionally graded porous beads were fabricated. HAp is bioactive material which has both high strength and better tissue-adhesive properties, but that is not readily absorbed by the human body. On the contrary, a-TCP is highly bioabsorbable; it is quickly absorbed by the body, and, therefore, disappears before bone is completely replaced. Fabricated new beads are composed of a-TCP at the center and HAp at the surface, to control the solubility in living body. Bone cell adaptability of these beads were confirmed in vitro.