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Mouse In Vitro Spermatogenesis on 3D Bioprinted Scaffolds
Guillaume Richer1, Tamara Vanhaecke2, Vera Rogiers2
1Biology of the Testis Lab (BITE) Research Group, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|February 14, 2024
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting can recreate the complex testicular architecture in vitro. This technique uses pneumatic microextrusion to build scaffolds that support germ cell differentiation and nutrient supply.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Biomedical engineering
- Tissue engineering
Background:
- Testes possess a complex, compartmentalized architecture crucial for germ cell differentiation.
- This architecture includes seminiferous tubules (approx. 200 μm diameter) surrounded by basement membrane and interstitium.
- Recreating this intricate structure in vitro presents significant challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of 3D bioprinting for reconstructing the compartmentalized testicular architecture in vitro.
- To develop a method for creating functional testicular tissue models.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing pneumatic microextrusion 3D bioprinting guided by software.
- Depositing hydrogel-encapsulated interstitial cells to form macroporous scaffolds resembling seminiferous tubules.
- Seeding epithelial cell fractions into the macropores of the bioprinted constructs.
Main Results:
- Successful bioprinting of macroporous scaffolds mimicking seminiferous tubule structure.
- Demonstrated potential for seeding epithelial cells within the macropores.
- Macropores facilitate cell reorganization and enhance nutrient supply within 3D constructs.
Conclusions:
- 3D bioprinting offers a viable approach to recreate the compartmentalized testicular architecture in vitro.
- This technology can generate scaffolds that support cellular organization and improve nutrient diffusion for potential testicular tissue engineering applications.
