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3D Inkjet Printing of Complex, Cell-Laden Hydrogel Structures
Andrea Negro1, Thibaud Cherbuin1, Matthias P Lutolf2,3
1Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences and School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland.
Scientific Reports
|November 22, 2018
Summary
This study demonstrates advanced inkjet 3D printing of complex hydrogel and living cell constructs. A sacrificial material approach enables perfusable channels for enhanced tissue models.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Tissue Engineering
- Biofabrication
Background:
- Inkjet printing offers a promising method for creating three-dimensional (3D) tissue constructs using hydrogels and living cells.
- Current limitations in multi-component deposition control hinder the complexity and functionality of inkjet-printed artificial tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To overcome challenges in synchronized multi-component bioink deposition for complex 3D hydrogel patterning.
- To develop high-resolution, multi-component living constructs using optimized inkjet printing parameters.
- To introduce a sacrificial material strategy for fabricating perfusable channels in 3D printed tissues.
Main Methods:
- Optimization of printing parameters for two distinct bioink formulations.
- Utilizing inkjet-based 3D printing for precise hydrogel and living cell patterning.
- Incorporating a sacrificial material printing technique to create internal channel structures.
Main Results:
- Achieved complex 3D hydrogel patterning with high resolution and multi-component capabilities.
- Successfully printed living cell-laden constructs with maintained cell viability and structural integrity.
- Demonstrated the feasibility of printing perfusable channels within larger 3D constructs.
Conclusions:
- This work advances inkjet 3D printing technology for creating sophisticated tissue models.
- The developed methods provide a foundation for generating more complex and functional 3D tissue models for research and regenerative medicine.
- The sacrificial material approach significantly improves the potential for long-term culture of larger engineered tissues.
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