Multi-network granular hydrogel with enhanced strength for 3D bioprinting.
Wei Wang1, Xi Chen2, Teng Meng1
1The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
Journal of Biomaterials Applications
|February 28, 2022
Summary
This study developed a strong, self-healing granular hydrogel bioink using methacryloylated gelatin (GelMA) and charged microspheres for 3D bioprinting. The engineered tissue showed excellent cell viability and mechanical strength, highlighting its potential for regenerative medicine.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Granular hydrogels, assembled from microparticles, show promise for 3D bioprinting applications.
- Enhancing the mechanical strength of hydrogel bioinks is crucial for fabricating robust engineered tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel compound bioink with enhanced strength and self-healing properties for 3D bioprinting.
- To investigate the effect of combining methacryloylated gelatin (GelMA) with charged microspheres for improved bioink performance.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of poly (γ-glutamic acid) (PG) and hydroxy propyl chitosan (CSPO) microspheres.
- Self-assembly of microspheres via charge interaction to form a granular hydrogel in the presence of GelMA solution.
- Characterization of mechanical properties (storage modulus, shear-thinning, self-healing) and printability (extrudability, fidelity) of the composite bioink.
- Assessment of adiposed-derived stem cell (ASC) proliferation and viability within the printed constructs after UV cross-linking.
Main Results:
- A composite granular hydrogel was successfully fabricated by combining GelMA with PG and CSPO microspheres.
- Optimal assembly and superior mechanical properties, including storage modulus, shear-thinning, and self-healing, were observed with an equal mass content of PG and CSPO microspheres.
- The composite bioink demonstrated excellent extrudability and fidelity when carrying ASCs.
- Post-printing UV cross-linking of GelMA significantly enhanced the mechanical strength of the printed constructs.
- ASCs encapsulated within the bioink exhibited significant proliferation, indicating good biocompatibility.
Conclusions:
- The developed composite granular hydrogel bioink exhibits enhanced strength, self-healing capabilities, and excellent printability.
- This novel bioink supports cell viability and proliferation, demonstrating significant potential for advanced 3D bioprinting applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
