3D Coaxial Printing Tough and Elastic Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering Using a Catechol Functionalized Ink System

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• 3D printing offers precise fabrication of tissue scaffolds.
• Developing biopolymer-based hydrogel inks with mechanical strength and elasticity remains challenging.
• Tough and elastic hydrogels are crucial for mimicking soft tissues like skin, muscle, and cartilage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a catechol-functionalized ink system for 3D coaxial printing of tough and elastic hydrogels.
• To create hydrogels that mimic the biomechanical properties of soft tissues.
• To enhance cell interactions and support tissue regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a novel ink using catechol-modified hyaluronic acid (HACA) and alginate.
• Utilizing a multi-stage crosslinking strategy: ionic, catechol-mediated, and Michael addition under mild conditions.
• Incorporating proteins like gelatin to improve cell adhesion and integration.

Main Results:

• The developed ink system successfully 3D printed tough and elastic hydrogels with a double network structure.
• The printed hydrogels exhibited high fracture toughness and elasticity, suitable for soft tissue mimicry.
• Constructs demonstrated excellent cytocompatibility and promoted myoblast differentiation into aligned myotubes.

Conclusions:

• The catechol-functionalized ink system is effective for 3D printing robust and elastic hydrogels.
• This approach provides a versatile platform for soft tissue engineering with potential for various applications.
• The study highlights the potential of combining biopolymers and novel crosslinking strategies for advanced biomaterials.