A Three-dimensional Polymer Scaffolding Material Exhibiting a Zero Poisson's Ratio

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Poisson's ratio quantifies transverse deformation under axial strain.
• Zero Poisson's ratio (ZPR) materials exhibit no transverse deformation when stretched.
• ZPR scaffolds are ideal for tissue engineering, mimicking native tissues and aiding healing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a 3D biomaterial with zero Poisson's ratio for tissue engineering.
• To investigate the suitability of ZPR scaffolds for mimicking native tissue behavior.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of ZPR biomaterials for biological applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilized digital micro-mirror device projection printing (DMD-PP) to fabricate scaffolds.
• Designed scaffolds with semi re-entrant pores to achieve zero Poisson's ratio.
• Conducted strain experiments and cultured human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) on the scaffolds.

Main Results:

• Successfully created polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based 3D biomaterial scaffolds with in-plane zero Poisson's ratio.
• Demonstrated that scaffold layering does not alter the zero Poisson's ratio.
• Confirmed ZPR behavior is scale-independent and material-independent within the elastic regime.
• Showcased successful hMSC culture on ZPR scaffolds, validating their biological application potential.

Conclusions:

• Developed novel ZPR biomaterials using DMD-PP, suitable for tissue engineering.
• ZPR scaffolds effectively mimic native tissue mechanical properties and support cell growth.
• These ZPR materials offer a versatile platform for various photocurable biomaterials in regenerative medicine.