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A Versatile Method for Fabricating Tissue Engineering Scaffolds with a Three-Dimensional Channel for Prevasculature
Shuai Li1, Yuan-Yuan Liu1,2, Li-Jun Liu1
1Rapid Manufacturing Engineering Center, Shanghai University , Shanghai 200444, People's Republic of China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|September 9, 2016
Summary
Researchers developed a novel technique using sacrificial poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) molding to create 3D perfusable branched networks for tissue engineering scaffolds. This method enhances vascularization crucial for thick tissue development and potential clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Vascularization is critical for the function of engineered tissues, yet creating 3D perfusable networks remains a significant challenge.
- Existing methods often result in 2D networks, limiting their application in thick tissue constructs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel sacrificial molding technique for fabricating biocompatible scaffolds with 3D perfusable branched networks.
- To address the limitations of current methods in creating complex vascular architectures for tissue engineering.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 3D-printed poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) filament as a sacrificial material to create a 3D branched network mold.
- Embedded the PVA mold within a gelatin hydrogel, then dissolved the PVA after hydrogel curing.
- Incorporated paraffin coating and hydroxyapatite (HA) into the gelatin to enhance channel stability and biocompatibility.
Main Results:
- Successfully fabricated a 3D perfusable branched network scaffold with good perfusability.
- Demonstrated successful attachment and high viability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) within the scaffold channels.
- The addition of paraffin and HA prevented channel deformation, ensuring structural integrity.
Conclusions:
- The novel fused PVA filament deposit technique offers a promising solution for engineering 3D perfusable branched networks.
- This approach has significant potential for advancing prevasculature in thick tissue engineering and facilitating clinical applications.
