Colloidal multiscale porous adhesive (bio)inks facilitate scaffold integration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Bioprinting Technology

Background:

• Dense biomaterial networks in traditional hydrogel scaffolds hinder cellular infiltration and tissue regeneration.
• Developing advanced bioinks is crucial for overcoming limitations in thick scaffold fabrication for tissue repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer novel hydrogel-based foam bioinks for bioprinting thick, porous scaffolds.
• To investigate the impact of process parameters on bioink properties and scaffold microstructure.
• To evaluate the in vivo performance of engineered scaffolds in tissue regeneration and muscle defect models.

Main Methods:

• Hydrogel-based foam bioinks were developed using a method inspired by whipped cream production.
• The effect of process parameters on pore size distribution, mechanical, and rheological properties was analyzed.
• Scaffolds were fabricated using conventional and handheld bioprinters and assessed for biocompatibility.
• In vivo studies involved subcutaneous implantation and application in a murine model of volumetric muscle loss.

Main Results:

• The developed foam bioinks create multiscale, interconnected porous structures upon cross-linking.
• Foam bioinks exhibit excellent printability, in situ adhesion, and biocompatibility.
• Subcutaneous implantation demonstrated rapid scaffold integration and vascularization compared to non-porous hydrogels.
• In vivo application in muscle defects led to significant functional recovery and improved muscle forces.

Conclusions:

• Hydrogel-based foam bioinks offer a promising platform for fabricating porous scaffolds with enhanced cellular infiltration and tissue integration.
• The developed bioinks facilitate efficient bioprinting and demonstrate significant therapeutic potential for tissue regeneration and volumetric muscle loss repair.