Multivascular networks and functional intravascular topologies within biocompatible hydrogels

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Fluid Dynamics

Background:

• Solid organs feature complex, entangled vascular networks crucial for fluid transport.
• Current methods for studying these 3D transport regimes are limited.
• Replicating intricate vascular structures remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for fabricating complex 3D vascular networks using photopolymerizable hydrogels.
• To demonstrate the creation of functional intravascular fluid mixers and valves.
• To explore the potential of these engineered vascular systems in biomedical applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilized projection stereolithography with food dye additives as photoabsorbers in hydrogels.
• Fabricated monolithic, transparent 3D hydrogel structures.
• Engineered entangled vascular networks based on space-filling mathematical topologies.
• Investigated red blood cell dynamics under simulated physiological conditions (tidal ventilation).

Main Results:

• Successfully created transparent, monolithic hydrogels with efficient 3D intravascular fluid mixers and bicuspid valves in minutes.
• Demonstrated the ability to form complex, entangled vascular networks.
• Observed oxygenation and flow of human red blood cells within the engineered networks during simulated ventilation.
• Showcased translational potential through deployment of biodegradable hydrogel carriers in a rodent liver injury model.

Conclusions:

• This materials innovation provides unprecedented design freedoms for creating complex 3D vascular systems.
• The developed hydrogel fabrication technique is rapid and versatile, enabling the study of intricate fluid transport phenomena.
• The findings highlight the potential for engineered vascular networks in regenerative medicine and disease modeling, particularly for liver injury.