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Three-dimensional Patterning of Engineered Biofilms with a Do-it-yourself Bioprinter
Published on: May 16, 2019
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Projection Microstereolithographic Microbial Bioprinting for Engineered Biofilms.
Karen Dubbin1, Ziye Dong2, Dan M Park2
1Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, California 94550, United States.
Nano Letters
|January 28, 2021
Summary
Researchers developed a 3D bioprinting technique to pattern microbes in hydrogels. This method enables the study of microbial biofilm structure and function, including metal ion absorption and sensing.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Biogeochemistry
Background:
- Microbial communities are essential for ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles.
- The role of microbial three-dimensional (3D) organization in function remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel technique for patterning microbes in 3D geometries.
- To investigate how biofilm structure influences microbial activity and function.
- To explore applications in metal ion absorption and sensing using engineered biofilms.
Main Methods:
- Developed a projection stereolithography technique for 3D bioprinting of microbes within hydrogel architectures.
- Monitored bacterial biomass accumulation to confirm post-print cell viability.
- Fabricated multi-strain fluorescent biofilms to demonstrate biological and geometric complexity.
- Assessed metal ion sequestration and uranium sensing capabilities of patterned engineered *Caulobacter crescentus*.
Main Results:
- Successfully demonstrated the viability of microbes post-3D bioprinting.
- Achieved fabrication of complex, multi-strain fluorescent biofilms.
- Showcased geometric effects on metal ion absorption efficiency and uranium sensing by engineered microbes.
Conclusions:
- This study presents the first demonstration of stereolithographic printing of microbes.
- The developed technique offers a powerful tool for creating engineered biofilms and complex 3D microbial cultures.
- Opens new avenues for understanding structure-function relationships in microbial communities and for designing novel biotechnological applications.
