Associated changes in stiffness of collagen scaffolds during osteoblast mineralisation and bone formation.

Within this short research note, stiffness changes (Young's modulus) during in vitro bone formation by primary osteoblasts in dense collagen scaffolds were monitored using atomic force microscopy. Data analysis revealed significant stiffening of 3D bone cultures at day 5 and 8 that was correlated with the onset of mineral deposition (p < 0.00005).