Chitin-Enhanced Seaweed Scaffolds for Cartilage Regeneration
Li Zhang
Manhasset High School, Manhasset, USA
Publication date: July 19, 2026
Manhasset High School, Manhasset, USA
Publication date: July 19, 2026
DOI: http://doi.org/10.34614/JIYRC2026I46
ABSTRACT
Osteoarthritis results from the degradation of cartilage, causing joint inflammation and pain. Current treatments vary in efficacy; however, biomaterial scaffolds are a promising alternative. This study aimed to investigate decellularized Sargassum and Ulva scaffolds enhanced with chitin as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Scanning electron microscopy visualized Sargassum scaffolds as a dense, fibrous network, implying more space for cell interactions in vivo than Ulva scaffolds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy ascertained lignin removal and maintenance of sulfate groups after decellularization. A gravimetric swelling ratio assay revealed median swelling ratios of 12.75 and 3.26 for Sargassum and Ulva scaffolds, respectively (p<0.05). Ulva scaffolds lost approximately 41.55% of their original mass within 15 days, due to the amorphous structure of ulvan while Sargassum scaffolds degraded steadily. Overall, the large surface area, durability, and high hydration observed in non-chitin Sargassum scaffolds support Sargassum as a biomaterial for tissue engineering.
Osteoarthritis results from the degradation of cartilage, causing joint inflammation and pain. Current treatments vary in efficacy; however, biomaterial scaffolds are a promising alternative. This study aimed to investigate decellularized Sargassum and Ulva scaffolds enhanced with chitin as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Scanning electron microscopy visualized Sargassum scaffolds as a dense, fibrous network, implying more space for cell interactions in vivo than Ulva scaffolds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy ascertained lignin removal and maintenance of sulfate groups after decellularization. A gravimetric swelling ratio assay revealed median swelling ratios of 12.75 and 3.26 for Sargassum and Ulva scaffolds, respectively (p<0.05). Ulva scaffolds lost approximately 41.55% of their original mass within 15 days, due to the amorphous structure of ulvan while Sargassum scaffolds degraded steadily. Overall, the large surface area, durability, and high hydration observed in non-chitin Sargassum scaffolds support Sargassum as a biomaterial for tissue engineering.
