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Characterization of a Bioink Combining Extracellular Matrix-like Hydrogel with Osteosarcoma Cells: Preliminary
Giada Loi1, Gaia Stucchi2, Franca Scocozza1
1Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Via Adolfo Ferrata 3, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
Gels (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 24, 2023
Summary
A new protocol standardizes bioink characterization for 3D bioprinting, evaluating a gelatin-chitosan hydrogel for printability and cell growth. This method aids in developing advanced biomaterials for tissue engineering.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Bioprinting Technology
Background:
- Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting enables the creation of artificial cellular microenvironments using bioinks.
- Standardized characterization of bioinks is crucial for ensuring printability and biocompatibility in 3D bioprinting applications.
- A novel hydrogel based on gelatin and chitosan was developed for potential use in 3D bioprinting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and validate a standardized protocol for the experimental characterization of a new gelatin-chitosan based bioink.
- To assess the printability and biocompatibility of the developed hydrogel for 3D bioprinting applications.
- To establish a robust method for future biomaterial screening and development in bioprinting.
Main Methods:
- The protocol involved three stages: pre-printing (hydrogel formulation and repeatability), 3D bioprinting (printability assessment), and post-printing (biocompatibility testing with UMR-106 cells).
- Printability was evaluated through qualitative and quantitative tests, with optimal printing achieved 4 hours post-cross-linker addition.
- Biocompatibility was assessed by culturing UMR-106 cells within the hydrogel constructs, monitoring cell growth and construct integrity over time.
Main Results:
- The gelatin-chitosan hydrogel demonstrated suitable printability, forming grids with good resolution.
- Maintaining an extruder temperature of 37 °C was essential for consistent printing pressure.
- The hydrogel supported UMR-106 cell growth, but construct fragmentation occurred after 14 days, potentially due to cell interference.
Conclusions:
- The proposed protocol provides a standardized approach for bioink characterization, crucial for advancing 3D bioprinting.
- The gelatin-chitosan hydrogel shows promise as a biomaterial for 3D bioprinting, although long-term stability needs further investigation.
- This standardization facilitates more reliable screening and development of novel biomaterials for tissue engineering applications.
