3D-Printed Collagen-Nanocellulose Hybrid Bioscaffolds with Tailored Properties for Tissue Engineering Applications

Hybrid collagen (Coll) bioscaffolds have emerged as a promising solution for tissue engineering (TE) and regenerative medicine. These innovative bioscaffolds combine the beneficial properties of Coll, an important structural protein of the extracellular matrix, with various other biomaterials to create platforms for long-term cell growth and tissue formation. The integration or cross-linking of Coll with other biomaterials increases mechanical strength and stability and introduces tailored biochemical and physical factors that mimic the natural tissue microenvironment. This work reports on the fabrication of chemically cross-linked hybrid bioscaffolds with enhanced properties from the combination of Coll, nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and citric acid (CA). The bioscaffolds were prepared by 3D printing ink containing Coll-NFC-CMC-CA followed by freeze-drying, dehydrothermal treatment, and neutralization. Cross-linking through the formation of ester bonds between the polymers and CA in the bioscaffolds was achieved by exposing the bioscaffolds to elevated temperatures in the dry state. The morphology, pores/porosity, chemical composition, structure, thermal behavior, swelling, degradation, and mechanical properties of the bioscaffolds in the dry and wet states were investigated as a function of Coll concentration. The bioscaffolds showed no cytotoxicity to MG-63 human bone osteosarcoma cells as tested by different assays measuring different end points. Overall, the presented hybrid Coll bioscaffolds offer a unique combination of biocompatibility, stability, and structural support, making them valuable tools for TE.