3D printed elastomeric biomaterial mitigates compaction during in vitro vasculogenesis.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Successful cellular implants require comprehensive intra-implant vascular networks.
• Pre-vascularization accelerates implant perfusion but faces scalability and integration challenges.
• Fibrin-based vasculogenesis leads to construct compaction and ineffective vascular networks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method to improve pre-vascularized construct structure and function.
• To overcome limitations of fibrin-based vasculogenesis, specifically construct compaction.
• To enhance the translational potential of engineered vascular networks for clinical applications.

Main Methods:

• Vasculogenic hydrogels were embedded within a 3D polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) scaffold created using reverse-casting.
• Scaffold pore size was optimized through in vivo screening of intra-device angiogenesis.
• Constructs were analyzed for compaction, dimensionality, vascular network morphology, and proteomic signaling.

Main Results:

• The PDMS scaffold significantly reduced hydrogel compaction, allowing for easier manipulation and predictable construct dimensions.
• Vascular networks exhibited altered morphogenesis, resulting in larger, less dense structures with increased surface area compared to hydrogels alone.
• Proteomic analysis indicated that the PDMS frame influenced cellular proliferation and migration signaling.

Conclusions:

• A 3D PDMS scaffold platform effectively prevents hydrogel compaction, leading to improved vascular network structure and maturity.
• This approach enhances the global dimensions and flexibility of pre-vascularized constructs.
• The novel method significantly advances the translational potential of engineered vascular networks for clinical use.