Layer-by-layer approach for a uniformed fabrication of a cell patterned vessel-like construct

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Small diameter blood vessel (SDBV) engineering requires precise control over material composition, geometry, and cell placement.
• Existing fabrication methods often lack the precision and scalability needed for complex vascular graft construction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an automated, layer-by-layer deposition system for fabricating multilayered SDBV constructs.
• To assess the system's ability to control critical fabrication parameters and incorporate cellular components.

Main Methods:

• An automated methodology utilizing a layer-by-layer deposition approach with controlled dipping/spinning speeds and biomaterial viscosity.
• Testing of methacrylated gelatin, alginate, and chitosan for construct fabrication.
• Incorporation of cellular components and assessment of cytotoxicity, viability, and proliferation.

Main Results:

• The system precisely controlled lumen diameters (0.5-6 mm) and layer thicknesses (1-400 μm).
• Cellular components were successfully integrated without significant cytotoxicity, showing homogenous distribution.
• Achieved precise endothelial cell layer thickness (20-30 μm) and demonstrated preliminary microstructural alignment.

Conclusions:

• The automated system offers a versatile and scalable solution for fabricating complex, cellularized multilayer vascular grafts.
• The developed methodology mimics natural blood vessel structures and holds promise for SDBV regeneration.