| Chitosan, cellulose nanocrystals, and halloysite nanotubes in the presence of calcium cations were used to
fabricate a three-dimensional nanocomposite scaffold. The FTIR and XRD analyses revealed that formation of the
network and incorporation of halloysite nanotubes into it were successful. FESEM images showed that the
addition of higher amounts of halloysite nanotubes into the scaffold's matrix leads to more and smaller pores. The
addition of halloysite nanotubes enhanced the thermal stability, mechanical characteristics, water uptake, and
degradation rate of the nanocomposite scaffold. The nanocomposite scaffold represented good biomineralization,
great cell proliferation, and acceptable cell attachment. Furthermore, the capability of the nanocomposite
scaffold for curcumin delivery was approved through cell proliferation, cumulative release, and antibacterial
studies. Cell proliferation of the nanocomposite with 10 wt% curcumin-loaded halloysite nanotubes reached
around 175% after 72 h. Considering the results, the prepared nanocomposite scaffold holds great potential for
being used in bone tissue engineering applications. |