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Microfluidic Bioprinting for Engineering Vascularized Tissues and Organoids
Published on: August 11, 2017
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Hydrogel bioprinted microchannel networks for vascularization of tissue engineering constructs
Luiz E Bertassoni1, Martina Cecconi, Vijayan Manoharan
1Biomaterials Research Unit, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
Lab on a Chip
|May 27, 2014
Summary
This study presents a novel 3D micromolding technique using agarose templates to create perfusable microchannels in hydrogel tissue constructs, enhancing nutrient transport and cell viability for tissue engineering applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Vascularization is crucial for engineered tissues, enabling nutrient and waste transport to maintain cell viability.
- Existing methods for vascularizing hydrogel constructs are limited, posing a significant challenge in tissue engineering.
- Controlled fabrication of functional microchannel networks within hydrogels is essential for developing complex tissue substitutes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an effective technique for fabricating perfusable microchannel networks within various hydrogel constructs.
- To demonstrate the ability to create diverse microchannel architectures using a 3D micromolding approach.
- To evaluate the functionality of the fabricated vascular networks in supporting cell viability and tissue development.
Main Methods:
- A three dimensional (3D) micromolding technique utilizing bioprinted agarose template fibers was employed.
- Microchannel networks were fabricated within photocrosslinkable hydrogels including methacrylated gelatin (GelMA), SPELA, PEGDMA, and PEGDA.
- The functionality of the vascular networks was assessed by evaluating mass transport, cellular viability, differentiation, and endothelial monolayer formation.
Main Results:
- Successfully embedded functional and perfusable microchannels within multiple hydrogel types (GelMA, SPELA, PEGDMA, PEGDA).
- Demonstrated improved mass transport, enhanced cellular viability, and supported cell differentiation within GelMA hydrogel constructs.
- Confirmed the successful formation of endothelial monolayers within the fabricated microchannels, indicating vascular network functionality.
Conclusions:
- The proposed 3D micromolding strategy offers an effective method for the controlled vascularization of hydrogel constructs.
- This technique holds significant potential for advancing tissue engineering and the development of organs on a chip.
- The ability to create perfusable vascular networks is key to overcoming limitations in engineered tissue development.
