A simple and high-resolution stereolithography-based 3D bioprinting system using visible light crosslinkable bioinks

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Materials Science
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Bioprinting is a key biofabrication technique for creating artificial tissues and organs.
• High-resolution printing of living cells is crucial for microscale cell deposition and tissue regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a low-cost stereolithography-based bioprinting system.
• To utilize visible light crosslinkable bioinks for enhanced fabrication.
• To assess the system's resolution, mechanical properties, and cell viability.

Main Methods:

• A stereolithography system was constructed using a commercial projector with an infrared filter.
• Visible light crosslinking was achieved with polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) and gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels using an eosin Y photoinitiator.
• Mechanical properties, microstructure, and cell patterning capabilities were evaluated using NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells.

Main Results:

• The system demonstrated high resolution (50 μm) for creating vertical 3D structures.
• The developed bioinks supported 85% cell viability for at least five days.
• Cell-free hydrogel patterns were successfully generated, showcasing the system's precision.

Conclusions:

• The developed low-cost bioprinting system offers a viable solution for microscale cell patterning.
• Visible light stereolithography with PEGDA/GelMA bioinks is effective for tissue engineering applications.
• This technology has broad potential for advancing biofabrication and regenerative medicine.