Advances in Gelatin Bioinks to Optimize Bioprinted Cell Functions.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Bioprinting Technology

Background:

• Gelatin is a key bioprinting biomaterial due to cell adhesion and growth properties.
• Covalent cross-linking stabilizes gelatin structures but fails to mimic the dynamic extracellular matrix (ECM).
• This limitation restricts the functionality of bioprinted cells within engineered tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in gelatin bioink formulations for 3D cell culture.
• To critically analyze bioprinting and cross-linking techniques for optimizing cell function.
• To explore novel cross-linking strategies that better emulate the ECM.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of current literature on gelatin bioinks and 3D cell culture.
• Review of bioprinting and cross-linking methodologies.
• Focus on strategies enhancing bioprinted cell functions.

Main Results:

• Double network bioinks and reversible cross-linking methods offer improved ECM mimicry.
• New cross-linking chemistries can recapitulate ECM viscoelasticity and enable advanced cell functions.
• Current gelatin bioinks are less explored in terms of advanced cell function optimization.

Conclusions:

• Reversible cross-linking in gelatin bioinks is crucial for mimicking the dynamic ECM.
• Future gelatin bioinks should prioritize cell-matrix interactions for enhanced therapeutic potential.
• Validation against 3D cell culture standards is necessary for improved outcomes.