Why was PLGA chosen as a scaffolding material?

PLGA, or poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), is widely utilized as a scaffolding material in tissue engineering primarily due to its exceptional combination of mechanical properties, processability, and biocompatibility. The material presents a favorable combination of strength and flexibility, which can be tailored by adjusting the ratio of lactic acid to glycolic acid in the polymer. This tunability allows researchers and engineers to design scaffolds that can withstand physiological loads while also providing an environment conducive to cell growth.

Additionally, PLGA's easy processability makes it suitable for a variety of fabrication techniques, such as electrospinning, 3D printing, or solvent casting, which are essential for creating complex scaffolds that mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) structure. Biocompatibility is another critical attribute of PLGA, as it is broadly recognized to elicit minimal inflammatory responses and is safely absorbed by the body over time, which is important for the integration of the scaffold with surrounding tissues.

Overall, the combination of excellent mechanical properties, ease of processing, and favorable biocompatibility makes PLGA a prime choice for scaffolding applications in tissue engineering, aligning perfectly with the needs of developing functional tissue constructs.