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3D Bioprinting of Collagen-based Microfluidics for Engineering Fully-biologic Tissue Systems
Daniel J Shiwarski1,2,3, Andrew R Hudson1, Joshua W Tashman1
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|February 14, 2024
Summary
This study introduces collagen-based high-resolution internally perfusable scaffolds (CHIPS) for advanced organ-on-a-chip models. CHIPS enable complex 3D tissue structures and improved cellular remodeling for better disease modeling and drug discovery.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Tissue Engineering
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microfluidic and organ-on-a-chip devices enhance in vitro system relevance for disease modeling and drug discovery.
- Current manufacturing methods face limitations in materials, mechanical properties, 3D matrix/cell patterning, and tissue remodeling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel 3D bioprinting method for creating advanced microphysiological systems.
- To address limitations in current organ-on-a-chip technologies.
- To develop a versatile platform for complex tissue engineering and disease modeling.
Main Methods:
- Developed a 3D bioprinting technique to create collagen-based high-resolution internally perfusable scaffolds (CHIPS).
- Incorporated extracellular matrix (ECM) and cells within the microfluidic scaffolds.
- Enabled size-dependent diffusion for molecular transport and cell-matrix interactions.
Main Results:
- CHIPS overcome limitations in materials, mechanical properties, and 3D patterning.
- The system supports cell migration, remodeling, capillary network formation, and integration of secretory cells.
- A glucose-responsive, insulin-secreting pancreatic-like microphysiological system was successfully created.
Conclusions:
- The CHIPS method offers enhanced design complexity and simplified fabrication for microphysiological systems.
- This technology advances in vitro modeling for applications in pharmacology and translational medicine.
- CHIPS provide a more physiologically relevant platform for studying complex cellular behaviors and tissue development.
